Twenty minutes later we arrive at ‘Wake Up House’, one of the first businesses my parents purchased together. I unbuckle Kinsley’s helmet and hang it opposite my own on the handle bars. The sight of two helmets on my bike sends a warmth to my chest which I quickly dismiss. She shuffles out of the jacket and I lay that on the seat before taking her hand and leading us inside.

Her eyes light up when we enter the building. Cosy booths line the far wall, with tables scattered throughout the middle. A flower stand spreads from the front window across to the counter, where the baristas are pouring coffee and taking orders. “This place looks incredible,” Kinsley says.

“Hey Tanner,” Lisa — the barista — calls cheerfully from the counter. “Are you here on business or can I get you a table?”

“Breakfast for two please.” I look down at Kinsley. “Coffee or Smoothie to start?”

“Uh …” she stumbles, clearly trying to grasp the comment from Lisa about business. “— coffee please.”

I nod to Lisa. “One dirty chai and one latte, thanks Lisa.” I place my hand on Kinsley’s lower back guiding her in the direction of the staircase. “We are going to sit up on the balcony,” I reply over my shoulder.

I had already glanced up at the balcony when we arrived to make sure it was free, it’s reserved for our family and friends but I’ve never actually sat down and dined here. My parents like to show off what they’ve got, and they’ve got plenty. Personally it gives me the ick. I would choose a home cooked meal over being wined and dined any day of the week. Unfortunately for some of us, we don’t get to choose the lives we live. Lisa rattles off something about bringing up menus and setting the table; I’m too entranced however by the woman in front of me to take note of anything else she has to say.

* * *

Kinsley

My head is aching, but from up here, looking over the busy streets with a coffee in my hand and Tanner across from me, for the first time in a while everything feels okay. After Lisa takes our orders for breakfast, my phone buzzes in my pocket.

Sophie - Hey Girl, how did you pull up this morning?

Me - My head feels like I’ve been banging it against the wall. You?

Before she can reply I place my phone down on the table and excuse myself to go find a bathroom. The last thing I want Tanner thinking is that I’ve run off to go take a phone call or something. I’m probably overthinking it but whatever; I’ve got nothing to hide even if he was to go through my phone.