Will I See You Again?

Alora dashed out of the house, her blue umbrella in one hand and her bag in the other. It was raining and she had to make it to the cafe.

She never missed a day without a reasonable explanation, even on rainy days. Austin started after her, he too was holding an umbrella, careful not to get close enough for her to know that she was being followed. She walked for a while before entering a big cafe through the front door.

He stood outside and watched her drop her bag, umbrella and coat. and wear an apron. She began taking orders and Austin followed the back and entered the manager's office.

"Mr Cannon, to who to I owe this visit?" The blonde man asked, fidgeting with a pen at his table. He was already slightly acquainted with Austin. It was better that way.

"That girl, the cream haired one."

Austin dragged the man to the kitchen and they watched Alora work without her seeing either of them.

"Her?" The man demanded.

"Yes." Austin said, impatient.

"Her name is Alora Silver. Very ambitious and hardworking. Never comes late. She is always here, except when she has emergencies. She has been nicknamed 'White Dancer.' "

Austin understood why. The way she prepared the coffee or latte and the manner in which she walked was almost like dancing She recited orders like they were songs.

She was the only person that captured his eyes. She looked graceful and happy. The patrons cheered her and she smiled. That smile was enough to tell Austin that he needed her. And fast.

****

AUstin watched Alora clean tables and wash the rest of the dishes. She removed the apron and wore her coat. Picking up her bag and umbrella, she locked the cafe and began walking home.

Austin trailed after her and was astounded by the way the wind whipped her hair. She abruptly stopped and turned around. She has seen me.

"Good evening." She politely said.

Austin smiled and said, "Good evening." She can't see my face. It's too dark. Austin thought. He had to create a conversation.

"Are you Miss Silver?"

"Indeed I am. How do you know?"

"I have heard a lot about The White Dancer." She laughed. Her voice sounded so good. He wanted to replay the sound of her laughter again and again.

"It's a pleasure to meet you." Austin held out his hand and she took it. Her hand was so soft.

"You are..." , Austin hesitated. If he told her his name, she would fear him.

"Call me Ace."

"Nice to meet you, Ace."

"Mind if I walk you home, Alora?"

"I... Not at all."

"Great."

Alora began walking and Austin followed her, side by side. They talked a lot. More like she talked and he listened. She babbled about her younger sister, brother and her work. She occasionally glanced at him and he would encourage her by saying, "Go on. I am listening."

She would then, smile and continue talking. They walked and when she reached a small house, she stopped. Is this where she lives? Austin asked himself. It's so small. She turned to look at him and said in a low voice, "This is where I live. My siblings are light sleepers and the tiniest of sounds wake them up."

"That's fine." He replied and pulled out a twig from her hair.

'He almost looks like Austin Cannon.' Alora thought but quickly condemned that thought. After all, that cold blooded murder can't act as sweet as Ace.