Chapter Two
The first time Mia saw him, he was standing in the romance aisle—completely lost.
He had one hand in his pocket and the other skimming the edge of a book cover like he was afraid it might bite him. His jacket was too warm for the weather, and his dark hair looked like he'd run his fingers through it one too many times.
Mia paused behind the counter, watching him.
Most guys who came in headed straight for the history section or asked if there was free Wi-Fi. This one? He looked like he didn't belong, and he knew it.
But something about him made her pause.
"Looking for something specific?" she called out.
He turned, caught off guard. His eyes were deep brown, the kind that didn't just look at you—they saw you.
"Uh… maybe," he said with a nervous smile. "A book. For my sister. She's into this stuff."
Mia raised a brow, amused. "Romance?"
He nodded, awkwardly. "Yeah. She's recovering from surgery. Said she wanted something 'emotional but not depressing.' Whatever that means."
Mia walked over, sliding a book from the shelf. "Try this one. It's about second chances, but it doesn't rip your heart out."
He took it from her, their fingers brushing slightly.
"Thanks," he said. "You sound like you actually read these."
"I do," she replied. "Religiously."
He smiled, a little softer this time. "Good to know. You've got the right vibe for it."
Mia tilted her head. "The right vibe?"
"You know," he said, chuckling. "Like someone who still believes in love."
Mia's lips parted, but she didn't answer right away.
She used to believe. She wanted to believe. But she hadn't thought anyone could still see that in her.
Before she could say anything, the bell rang again and another customer walked in. The moment broke.
He nodded, holding up the book. "Thanks for the help. I'm Jason, by the way."
"Mia."
He smiled. "Maybe I'll stop by again. For more sister-approved recommendations."
And just like that, he was gone.
Mia stood still for a moment, the book still warm from his touch in her hand.
Maybe it was nothing.
Or maybe, it was the start of a story she hadn't written yet.