#(queue) be continued

BECCA: I miss both of you!

Location: Tappin’ Boots

There was a lot going through her mind lately -- Becca wasn’t used to not being able to think clearly. This time with Bruno, and missing having someone to talk to. She had enjoyed her conversation with Carter at the masquerade; it almost felt like old times. Save from the lack of touching, and kissing; but they had gotten along. And honestly, she was happy for him and his next project.

Becca knew she may never completely be over the way things ended between them, but wanted to try. It was her turn to extend an olive branch. Having picked up a small congratulatory gift for him, she sent a text to the familiar, but untouched number in her phone. Seeing the last string of messages brought an unsettled feeling to her stomach, but she hit send anyway and hoped he would show up at the bar. She figured under the watchful eye of her sister, it would be a choice place to reconcile.

Location: The Grind

“Lottie!” Becca greeted excitedly as she saw her friend enter the coffee shop. She had been meaning to get in touch with her recently -- both to catch up and see how she was doing. Time hadn’t been on her side though, and the uncertainty between her and Bruno had left Becca to be more a hermit than usual. “How are you?” she chirped, signalling for the other to slide in front of her in line. No one was paying them mind anyhow. “I’ve been thinking we really should get that book club off the ground soon, if you’re still interested? I could probably use some help choosing a title for sure. I have too many right now that have taken up my mind, and I’m not the best at making decisions.” She was stoked for the idea. So much that it already seemed like she’d down a bunch of caffeine, despite not having placed her order yet.

Location: ABCs Daycare

Although they were a few years or so apart in age, Becca always at least knew of Arianna since both had grown up in Edens Town. The library had been getting rid of a slew of books; she had already taken a hug box of them to Maddie for her classroom, but there were others that were more suited for younger ages. Those in preschool. Many were at least in mint condition, so Becca decided to stop by ABCs Daycare in town and see if they might be of use for the kiddos there. They were far from falling apart -- so Rebecca didn’t want to see them go into recycling, or worse -- the trash, just yet.

She had visited the daycare a few times before getting her job at the library; often for volunteer work or to get used to helping little ones. This was her first time in a while though, and she was excited to be back. “Good afternoon, Arianna,” Becca addressed her warmly, hoping she hadn’t interrupted in mid-lesson or anything. “Not sure if you remember me from the library or not, but we had some books that we’re weeding out and I thought maybe you guys could use some.”

Location: Edens Elementary

It was that time of year when the librarians at Edens Library had to weed through the books in their collection. The ones that were cast aside were often falling apart from love, had barely circulated, or they were replacing with newer copies. Noting that many of them were children’s books -- particularly of elementary age, Rebecca kept a box of the ones that were in better shape. She knew Madison was still acclimating to a first year of teaching, and likely could use some for her classroom.

It was early in the morning, but Rebecca hadn’t wanted to keep her after hours, or disrupt while she had students engaged in their lessons. Checking in at the front office, she got a visitor’s pass a little before the kids would be arriving and followed directions to Miss Harrow’s classroom. The box she carried was a bit heavy, and a little big for someone so petite, but she managed. Grinning as she spotted the light on in the classroom, Becca gave the door a gentle knock. “Hey, Maddie!” she greeted warmly; the two had bonded quickly over their love of reading. “I brought you some books I thought you might want for your classroom?”

Location: The Grind

Becca’s days off were ordinarily spent staying cozied in at her place, catching up with whatever book she was currently enamored in. It wasn’t complete without a fresh latte and muffin though from The Grind. She didn’t treat herself too often, but it had become a weekly tradition. Especially now that she and Bruno weren’t really talking after too much alcohol led to confusing, complicated kisses -- she particularly needed a boost. She might even give in and get two muffins for good measure.

After placing her order and paying, Becca moved to take a seat at one of the tables near the counter until her items were ready. In the meantime she busied herself with her phone, thumb flickering over the last text from Bruno; it was sent before the ball. They had never gone so long without talking, and she didn’t know what to make of it. Peeking up from her cell as someone entered, chestnut hues widened at the sight of exactly who was on her mind. She wondered whether to duck and hide, or play it off like everything was cool. It didn’t matter though, Bruno had definitely spotted her. It was too late to do anything but wave. So she did, and gave him a soft, but shaky smile.

“Hey, B. Needed a caffeine fix too?”