This is an absolute first for me! I’ve never posted a second Friday Fictioneers story. However, after reading Kent Bonham’s STOOD UP? and the ensuing comments between readers and author, it seemed to cry out for the other side of the story. Maybe it’s all those plummy Hallmark channel holiday movies, but here’s my take.

Genre: Romantic Fiction

Word Count: 100

BLIND DATE?

            John came into the café at least twice a week. Julie looked forward to his wit and comfortable repartee.  

            He checked his watch for the fifth time. The disappointment in his eyes made Julie ache as she poured his water.

            “Perhaps she got hung up in traffic.”

            “Nah. Stood up again.”

            Maybe there was something she could do after all—for both of them. Heart pounding, Julie made an excuse about her shift ending and dashed to the back room to change.

            John’s mouth dropped when she returned and squeezed his hand. “Sorry, I’m late. I had to work.”