Finding Us

A Message From Nicholas

Myra was curled up on the small couch in her apartment, a cup of cold coffee in one hand and a novel in the other. The late afternoon sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. She had managed to carve out a few quiet moments for herself, savoring the peace after a busy week of classes and adjusting to her new life in Lyon.

Her phone buzzed on the cushion beside her, pulling her out of the world of her book. She picked it up, glancing at the screen. It was a message from Nicholas.

Nicholas: Hey, how's your day going?

A small smile tugged at Myra's lips. She wasn't expecting a text from him, but the simple message brought a flutter of warmth to her chest. Nicholas wasn't the type to text often, so when he did, it felt like something more than just casual conversation.

She set her book down and typed out a quick reply, the words flowing easily.

Myra: Hey! Pretty good, just enjoying some downtime. How about you?

She hit send and watched as the three little dots appeared, indicating that Nicholas was typing a response. It didn't take long before his reply came through.

Nicholas: Same here. Got some time before my next class and thought I'd check in. Wanted to see if you'd be up for grabbing a coffee later?

Myra's smile widened, and she felt her heart skip a beat. The idea of spending more time with Nicholas was unexpectedly appealing. Over the past few days, she had found herself looking forward to their interactions, enjoying the way he made her feel seen and understood in a way that few people did.

Myra: That sounds great! I could use a break from studying. Where do you want to meet?

She sent the message and waited, feeling a small thrill of anticipation. Nicholas replied almost immediately.

Nicholas: How about that café by the river? The one with the outdoor seating. I hear they have great coffee.

Myra: Perfect! I'll meet you there in 30 minutes?

Nicholas: 30 minutes it is. See you soon.

Myra put her phone down, her thoughts racing. She quickly changed into something a bit more presentable than her loungewear, opting for a comfortable dress that flowed softly around her and her favorite sandals. A quick glance in the mirror confirmed that she looked relaxed but put together. She didn't want to overthink it, but a part of her wanted to look nice for Nicholas.

As she stepped out into the warm evening air, she couldn't help but feel that this was more than just a casual coffee. The connection she felt with Nicholas was growing stronger, and she was beginning to wonder if there was something more to it than just friendship.

The walk to the café was peaceful, the streets of Lyon bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. The city had a charm that made Myra feel at home, even in this foreign place. As she approached the café by the river, she spotted Nicholas sitting at a table under the shade of a large tree, the soft light filtering through the leaves creating a serene atmosphere.

He looked up as she approached, a smile spreading across his face. "Hey, glad you could make it."

"Wouldn't miss it," Myra replied, returning his smile as she took the seat opposite him. "This place is beautiful."

Nicholas nodded, his eyes lingering on her for a moment before he spoke. "It is. I thought it'd be a nice change of pace."

Their conversation flowed easily as they ordered their drinks—an espresso for Nicholas and an iced coffee for Myra. As they waited for their drinks, Myra found herself laughing more than she expected, the conversation peppered with playful banter and shared stories.

"So, what's your go-to when you need a break from studying?" Nicholas asked, his tone curious.

Myra paused, thinking for a moment. "Honestly, it's usually a good book or some kind of creative outlet. I've always been drawn to things that let me express myself."

Nicholas nodded, interested. "Like what? Art? Writing?"

"Writing, mostly," Myra admitted, feeling a bit shy about revealing this part of herself. "I've always loved getting lost in words, whether it's reading or jotting down my thoughts."

"That's really cool," Nicholas said, his admiration clear. "I've never been much of a writer, but I can appreciate it. Sounds like a good way to unwind."

"It is," Myra agreed, feeling a little more at ease. "What about you? What do you do to relax?"

Nicholas chuckled, shaking his head. "Honestly, I'm still trying to figure that out. I've always been so focused on my goals that I sometimes forget to take a step back and just... relax. But I guess that's part of why I wanted to come to Lyon. To find that balance."

Myra nodded, understanding more than she had expected to. "It's hard, finding that balance. Especially when you're in a new place, with new challenges."

"Exactly," Nicholas said, leaning in slightly. "But I think it's worth it, to find that balance. To not just achieve things but to enjoy the process, the journey."

As the evening unfolded, they continued to talk, delving into deeper topics—family, their hopes for the future, the challenges they faced. Myra found herself sharing more than she usually did, opening up about her year in India, the struggles of balancing her need for independence with her love for her family, and how she sometimes felt caught between two worlds.

Nicholas listened intently, his gaze steady and reassuring. When he spoke, it was with a quiet understanding that made Myra feel seen in a way that was rare for her.

"You know," Nicholas said, his voice low and thoughtful, "you're stronger than you think. It takes a lot to start over in a new place, especially after everything you've already done. But you're doing it, and that's something to be proud of."

Myra looked down, feeling a surge of emotion. "Thank you, Nicholas. That means a lot, coming from you."

He reached across the table, his hand brushing hers lightly. "Anytime, Myra."

The simple touch sent a shiver down her spine, and for a moment, they just looked at each other, a quiet understanding passing between them. Myra felt the air around them shift, something unspoken lingering between them.

But then the moment passed, and Nicholas pulled back, his usual easy smile returning. "So, should we order another round, or have we had enough caffeine for one evening?"

Myra laughed, grateful for the lightened mood. "I think I'm good for now. But maybe next time, we can try something different. Tea, perhaps?"

Nicholas grinned. "Sounds like a plan."

As they walked out of the café together, the sky fading into twilight, Myra couldn't help but feel that something had shifted between them. The connection she felt with Nicholas was undeniable, and while she didn't know what the future held, she knew that whatever it was, it felt good—right, even. And for now, that was enough.