The Space Between Sips
A short story where mornings overlap, but timing never does
This story began with nothing but an observation prompt in my notebook.
No outline. No plan. Just fragments from mornings I’ve noticed – then followed until they turned into something else.
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He woke in a cold apartment – she slept a little longer.
Wish I wasn’t alone – wish I was alone.
Time for the morning routine: stretches, shaving, granola, suit.
Time to sneak out quickly: deodorant, gum, hurry, stress.
Need coffee – need coffee.
He took the tram, nose buried in articles – she walked ferociously fast.
He arrived – she just made it.
He held the door for an elderly couple – she was out of breath, time running out.
A double latte!
The café went quiet.
He and she turned and looked at each other.
A polite smile. A moment.
Cheeks warmed. Chests beat harder.
The gaze moved behind the eyes, to something more.
It’s you.
He got his coffee – she had to run.
He woke in an apartment, not quite as cold anymore – she woke early and confused.
A day off work, but out of coffee – coffee would be good.
I’ll eat on the way, I have to go – not that hungry, I have to go.
He arrived – she looked around.
Cheeks warmed – chest beat harder.
Maybe…? – is he here?
Double latte and pastry – double latte and pastry.
Maybe tomorrow.
He woke in a warm apartment – she woke in a hotel room.
Wish I was alone – wish I wasn’t alone.
Time to wake the kids, two hours until work – time to order room service, one hour until the press conference.
Diaper change, porridge, brushing teeth, time slipping away – lotion, sandwich, PowerPoint, loneliness.
Time flies.
I have to go, need coffee – I’m stuck, need coffee.
Maybe…? – will he be there?
Cheeks warmed – chest beat harder.
He parked after the school drop-off – she took a taxi after trying on four outfits.
He sat down, eyes alert – she bit her nails while waiting for her order.
Her at the counter – is it…?
She turned. Cheeks warmed.
Both holding a double latte in each hand.
“Hi.”
It’s you. It’s always been you.
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I loved how timing and serendipity were woven through this piece.
I absolutely loved this, the format, the wording, how so little needed to be said for three elaborate stories to be told all at once. You've inspired me to get a whole lot more creative!