#michael » 𝕞𝕦𝕤𝕖。⋮ ― ˗ˏˋ 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒌 ˎˊ˗

[dustoire]

@toksikk ― [ mercedes && michael ] "I made you some fresh coffee."

Having been focused on a book, Michael opts to hold up a finger to indicate, hold on a moment. In only a few short seconds, he finishes the passage, marks his progress with a small paper clip, and finally turns his attention to the mug placed in front of him. “ Black, steaming, just a hint of creamer, ” he inspects out loud. So, she remembers. Good to know. “ Thank you. ” There's an awkward pause, like he's contemplating what to say, as thin pale fingers tap at the mug. “ . . . Unusually quiet here today. I can actually read without much interruption. ”

[dustoire]

Initially, his only reply came in the form of a brisk exhale, puffed out through his nose. After another sip from his coffee, though, he turned the book over in one hand to paraphrase the description on the back cover. “ A young woman marries a rich widower ― rather quickly, I might add ― and soon discovers that the man's dead wife ― the titular character ― haunts the household. ” Such a vague description of the plot, but it alone was intriguing enough to catch Michael's attention. “ It's a much more interesting read than expected. I'm still getting through it, but as of right now, it's on its way to making it on my list of recommendations. ”

"Dont worry. Im well versed in what to say." The blonde answered, turning away from him for a moment to pass off a couple beers to Lexus for her table. "This wont be a surprise but im not a reader so I dont know anything about that book. So by all means, give me details!" Usually she had to pretend to be interested in the men that came in to raisins but She liked Michael ever since they were on the dance team together with Stan. "Im just gonna do some bar prep for the evening but im listening to you, promise."

[dustoire]

“ May want to figure out your teams for the night, then. If you have to pretend to care. ” Michael had yet to look up from his mug, even as he lifted it to his lips to take a sip. “ People are going to ask, even if they already know. ” Dark eyes glance up at her when she asked about his reading. Fingers left the mug to lift his book so she can read the title. “ Rebecca, by Daphne du Maurier. I'll spare you the details, unless you're actually as invested as you come off. ”

Mercedes grabbed a rag to wipe down the bar and make some fresh beers for what guests they did have. "It will get busy in probably an hour or so. The game will start then. Don't ask me whos playing what. I hate sports but I have to pretend to be interested." She rolled her eyes before smiling. " But of course I know your order. Gotta make sure my coffee is better than your previous Village Inn." She teased, tucking a blonde strand behind her ear. " I'm glad you came in. Whats the choice of reading tonight?"