Memories

Chapter 1

I walked into the coffee shop down the street. The smell of strong coffee filled my lungs. People began to leave as it was nearly time to close, but I had to come here before the day was over.

I promised myself.

Christmas lights were hung neatly around the tiny shop, filling every inch of the large glass window that caught everyone's attention.

I glanced over at the small chalkboard which always had the date listed on it.

It's December 21st.

Wow does time fly.

I raked my fingers through my light brown hair as emotions flooded me.

*memories*

"This coffee is amazing." Alli said cheerfully, bringing the cup back to her soft pink lips.

"It's a bit strong yeah?" I asked, pushing it away.

"It's perfect to me." She stated, shrugging her shoulders.

"What ever makes you happy, my love." I said, bringing her cold, tiny hands into mine.

Her arms stretched out on the table, as well as mine. We both sat there and held each others hands.

"So, what's planned for today?" She asked. It was only 2 in the afternoon. Her sea blue eyes piercing through me.

"Well, I have Christmas shopping to finish. But you can't come." I replied with a smirk.

"And why is that?" She asked happily.

"I haven't got you anything...yet." I said, smiling.

"Ashton I told you not to. All I need is you." She said, making my heart absolutely melt.

"No, I have to." I said dismissively.

"I only have 4 more days."

She turned her head, looking at the chalkboard near the register of the shop.

"Wow it's the 21st already?" She said surprised.

"Yeah, time flies doesn't it."

*end of memory*

Tears were threatening to well up in my eyes. I pushed back the memories.

"How's it going, Ashton?" Nancy asked from behind the counter. She was a shorter woman, with blonde curly hair and hazel eyes, mid 30s.

"Fine." I said shortly. "I'll take the usual."

"Okay it'll be ready in a minute." She said dismissively.

"Uhm I need to pay for it." I said, reminding her as I pulled out my wallet.

"It's on me." She said sweetly.

"Thanks Nancy." I said, smiling back. It took everything in me to even force a small smile.

A minute later Nancy came up to me and handed me my drink. The cup warmed up my rather freezing hands.

"We're closing now. But, ill let you stay longer." She said, walking away.

I took my seat in the same table I always did.

Alli liked this table the most. You could see the people walk past the window display and just look at the shining Christmas lights in awe.

I miss watching her just stare at the lights, like they were something from another planet. Something about them just took all of her interest.

That's one thing I loved about her.

The simplest things would catch her attention, when no one would think twice about whatever it was.

I miss it.