The Momma Clan

It was a balmy summer evening in Paris, and the city was alive with the vibrant hum of laughter and music. At a quaint little café near the Seine, Steffi sat alone, sipping her coffee and lost in a book. The gentle rustle of leaves and the distant sound of an accordion provided a soothing backdrop.

Suddenly, the chair opposite her scraped against the pavement. Steffi looked up to see a handsome man with dark hair and a warm smile.

“Excuse me, is this seat taken?” he asked, his voice rich and melodious.

Steffi shook her head, a little startled. “No, it’s not. Please, feel free.”

“Thank you,” he said, sitting down and setting his coffee on the table. “I’m Steve, by the way.”

“Steffi,” she replied, closing her book. “Nice to meet you.”

“I couldn’t help but notice the book you’re reading. It’s one of my favourites,” Steve said, nodding towards the cover.

Steffi’s eyes lit up. “Really? I just started it, but I’m already hooked.”

Steve leaned forward, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm. “The way the author describes Paris, it’s like you’re walking through the streets with the characters.”

Steffi smiled. “Exactly! It’s like the city becomes a character itself.”

They continued to chat, their conversation flowing effortlessly. The café buzzed around them, but they were lost in their own world. Hours passed, and the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Seine.

“Do you come here often?” Steffi asked, taking a sip of her now cold coffee.

Steve nodded. “Whenever I need inspiration. There’s something about this place that just sparks creativity.”

“I can see why,” Steffi said, looking around. “It’s beautiful.”

“Would you like to take a walk along the river?” Steve suggested, a hopeful look in his eyes.

Steffi hesitated for a moment, then smiled. “I’d love to.”

They strolled along the Seine, the city lights reflecting off the water. The conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and shared stories.

“So, what brings you to Paris?” Steve asked as they paused on a bridge, looking out at the twinkling lights.

“I’m here on a solo adventure,” Steffi explained. “I’ve always wanted to see Paris, and I finally decided to just go for it.”

“That’s brave,” Steve said, admiringly. “I think solo trips are the best way to really experience a place.”

“Have you travelled alone much?” Steffi asked.

“A few times,” Steve replied. “But Paris is where I always come back to. It’s like a second home.”

They continued to walk, the night growing cooler. Steffi shivered slightly, and Steve noticed.

“Are you cold? Here, take my jacket,” he said, draping it over her shoulders before she could protest.

“Thank you,” Steffi said, blushing. “You’re very kind.”

“It’s the least I can do,” Steve said with a smile. “I want you to enjoy every moment of your adventure.”

As they walked back to the café, Steffi realised how comfortable she felt with Steve, despite having just met him. There was a connection between them that felt effortless and real.

When they reached the café, Steve turned to her. “Can I see you again, Steffi?”

Steffi’s heart skipped a beat. “I’d like that,” she said softly.

Steve grinned. “How about tomorrow? Same place, same time?”

“Perfect,” Steffi agreed, feeling a flutter of excitement.

As they parted ways, Steffi couldn’t help but feel that this unexpected encounter was the beginning of something special. And for the first time in a long while, she couldn’t wait to see what tomorrow would bring.

-Arwa Saifi