I awake the next morning. After a long night, the last thing I needed was to be blinded by the morning light peaking through the window. I squint as I look around. What I see doesn’t surprise me. The morning light makes everything clear, but I still need a little something else. My thoughts immediately flock towards a cup of coffee. I start the coffee maker and wait for my cup of clarity.

The drip of the coffee maker is hypnotizing. When the drops cease and the pot fills up I make my cup of coffee and walk towards the window. I stand sipping and thinking while watching the clouds cruise by. This is my time for reflection. My peaceful moment before everyone wakes up.

I take slow sips at first. I do this so I can slowly piece the previous night together. Also because the coffee is extremely hot. The last thing I need now is burnt taste buds. Oh coffee, how I love you and hate you so much.

She starts to stir. She slowly wakes up as I pour my second cup. I walk around aimlessly. This is my way of looking busy and holding off on any awkward feelings.

Should I offer her a cup?

Does she drink coffee?

Damn, I might need to put on a fresh pot.

I guess casual conversation is in order. Take a sip of coffee (I still haven’t figured out if she wants some) and try to be welcoming. Maybe not to the fullest, seeing as I sit with my single cup. I don’t know if she is ready for a cup of clarity.

We start out on the same couch talking occasionally. Simple talks of the weather and other miscellaneous things. Never talks of the night before. There isn’t a point to talk about the connection felt, or the groove that took over. Seeing how there is not a point makes it easier to feel detached. So the weather will do as stimulating conversation. Maybe not as stimulating as all the coffee.

We part ways so we can “take care of a few things” and “get the day started.”

I walk alone with no particular destination in mind. I see a coffee shop and know that I probably don’t need another cup. I have no place to be though, and coffee sounds good. I walk inside and straight to the counter to order. Large coffee please.

I sit down and pull out a notebook. I write and drink.

This is starting to feel repetitive…

• Kiss & Tell