SHAWN’S POV
His day at the office was filled with workload and it helped to keep thoughts of the kiss out of his head.
He went out for lunch with Rachel and when they came back, he immersed himself once more in work.
And before he knew it, it was time to go home. He was arranging his things, when Rachel walked in.
“Hey, Shawn. There is a new Karaoke bar opening today and I would love us to go there, please.” Rachel said.
Shawn wanted to decline her request, but remembered he was not ready to faceTiffany yet. If he goes to the bar with Rachel he is mostly likely to get home late, and by then, Tiffany would be fast asleep.
“Sure. Just let me gather my stuff.” Shawn replied.
“Aww…thank you so much.” Rachel said.
After arranging his things, he indicated he was ready and they both headed out of his office together.
“I will lead the way while you drive closely behind me.” Rachel said, as they got to the parking lot.
“Okay.” Shawn said and got into his car. He waited for Rachel to drive out before following behind.
They soon arrived at the bar, and it was already bubbling with lots of people sitted having fun and a singer singing a slow romantic song on the stage.
They walked to an empty table and took their seats. Shawn looked around as he admired the setting of the place. There was a stage in the center of the room, with a microphone and a screen that displayed song lyrics. The room was dimly lit, with lots of colorful lights and disco balls. There were tables for people to sit at, and a bar where one can order drinks. The atmosphere was casual and noisy, with people chatting, laughing, and singing along to the singer on the stage.
Shawn was impressed by the karaoke bar, as he took in all the details of the room. The music and the lively atmosphere put him in a good mood. For once, he appreciated Rachel’s thoughtfulness to bring him there.
Soon, the singer on stage was replaced by another one, a woman with a sonorous voice. She started singing a song by Shania Twain, and the crowd cheered and sang along including Shawn.
“I should get us a drink.” Rachel suddenly said and stood up. “What would you love to have?” She asked.
“A Pina colada cocktail would do.” Shawn replied.
“Okay…how about snacks. I think I can spot some chips and pretzels. Which would you like to have?”
“The Pretzels would do.” Shawn replied.
“Coming right up.” Rachel said and walked away.
RACHEL’S POV
“Hello, can I have two glasses of cocktails? Mojito and Pina colada to be precise.” Rachel said to the waitress, who had her back to her.
“Noted. Your orders….” The waitress stopped as her face lit up in recognition. “Rachel?”
“Oh Hey, Shelley.” Rachel greeted casually.
“It’s good to see you. You came for the bar opening?” Shelley asked.
“Isn’t it obvious? Can I get my orders please?” Rachel said almost rudely.
“Sure. You look good anyways.” Shelley said, as she turned to start preparing the drinks.
“Can I get four pretzels too?”
“Of course.” Shelly replied.
After a while, Shelley presented the orders on a tray and placed it on the counter.
Rachel made to carry the tray, but Rachel stopped her. “Before you go, I want to please remind you about the money you promised me. Despite sending my account details like you asked me to, I still did not get any money from you. I had to take this part time job here so I can earn more.” Shelly said.
“Seriously, Shelley? In a public place like this, you chose to beg for money? Rachel asked, not hiding the irritation in her voice.
“I don’t have an option. You don’t pick my calls or reply to my texts. You warned me not to visit your workplace. What would you have me do? I have pressing needs and I have to pay my student loan. Bill.”
“Am I your parents or relatives, Shelley? We are just friends. Friends, Shelley!” Rachel said angrily.
“I know, but you still have to help me, Please.” Shelley pleaded desperately.
“Since you know, then you should stop pestering me.” Rachel said.
“You know, it’s funny how you forgot how I used to help you back then in school. If someone had told me you would start acting this way towards me I would have called them the biggest liar of the century. But look at you, acting all high and mighty because you were lucky to get a job in your friend’s company.” Shelley said.
“I don’t owe you anything. You chose to help me voluntarily. I never forced and asked you to. Have a nice day.” And with that, Rachel carried the tray and Walked away.
The guts of Shelley to think she owed her anything simply because she helped her a couple of times when they were in school.
“Here is your order. I hope you enjoy it.” Rachel said sweetly, as she placed the tray on the table.
“Thank you. And thank you for suggesting we come here.” Shawn said as he took the glass of cocktail from the tray.
“You are welcome, Shawny.” Rachel replied.
They spent the next few hours dancing and singing along to whatever song they heard. After much merriment, it was time for them to go home.
“I really enjoyed my time here today. We should do this some other time.” Shawn said, as they stood outside the bar ready to go home.
“Of course. Anytime you want to. I’m available.” Rachel said.
“Okay, then. Gihd night and drive safely.” Shawn said.
“Just that? Not even a hug?” Rachel asked.
“Oh. Come here.” Shawn said, and gave her a quick hug.
“I will see you tomorrow at work.” He said and got into his car.
As he drove off, Rachel stood waving and she wished the hug had lasted more than it did.
She sighed as she got into her car and drove home.