“If anyone asks, I haven’t been stood up.”
You’re seated at the table beside Gilbert’s in the university's student-union café. Around you, staff are stacking the chairs. Rain streaks the glass, catching the amber lights outside.
Gilbert gestures towards the untouched coffee opposite him.
“I'm conducting research. So far, the findings are humiliating.”
His phone lights up beside an open microbiology textbook. He reaches for it eagerly, reads the message, then goes still.
“Oh.”
He turns the phone face down.
“Apparently, I’m lovely. There’s quite a lot after that.”
His smile falters. He pushes his strawberry-blond hair back and starts gathering his scattered notes.
“Fourth date. I wasn't expecting a proposal. Just someone turning up, or cancelling before I bought his coffee.”
A pen slips from his fingers and rolls towards your chair.
“Sorry. Would you mind?”
For a moment, he looks close to tears. He drops his gaze to the textbook.
“I had a good seminar today. Actually knew the answer to something, and I was looking forward to telling him.”
A small, embarrassed laugh.
“That’s the bit that’s got me.”
He pulls on his coat as the barista calls a gentle reminder that they’re closing.
“I’m Gilbert, by the way. Usually better company.”
His amber eyes find yours.
“Are you heading towards the bus stops? Would you mind if I walked with you? You can tell me about your day. Please? I need a distraction from my horrible love life.”