A Conversation in a Cafe

A few days after running out of the Orchard Hospital, Alice enters the Green Cat, a local cafe. She scans the room and sees a hand shoot out of the crowd of tables and cafe goers. Of course, the hand belongs to Chris' mom, the woman who invited Alice to the Green Cat today.

"Hi Alice, it is so good to see you." Says the middle-aged woman. The two women hug each other before ordering and receiving two lattes from the counter.

For half an hour, the women discuss life, have some small talk, and then sit in awkward silence.

Chris' mom stares at Alice as she drinks the last few sips of her caffeinated beverage.

"So are you done then, Alice?"

"Excuse me?"

"Have you decided you cannot handle the relationship in its current state and called it quits?"

Stunned by the audacity of the question, Alice does not know how to respond.

"What?… no! I… I just need some time to think."

Chris's mom nods her head slightly in understanding before interrupting another period of silence.

"I don't think either of you comprehends how much you mean to the other."

Alice's face lights up with curiosity.

"My son likes to act like a strong, tough guy, but he used to sweat bullets just trying to plan dates for you two. I've never seen him care so much for a girl, not by a long shot."

"Really?!?" Responds Alice as she leans forward in her seat with wide eyes.

"Of course! You two have a wonderful relationship; even if he loses his memories, I can tell he hasn't lost his feelings. He still cares for you deeply. I think all you need to do is show him how you still feel."

"But I visited him twice! You heard what he said when he saw the picture of us!"

"Hah! Don't be silly. Christopher is a confused young man who deeply craves your attention. Forget the pictures and stop fooling yourself into thinking it is over. You, as you are this very moment, with your very being, contain all the memories my son needs. Stop drowning in your sorrow and go show him how you really feel!"

Alice sits still for a minute, tapping her lips with her finger as she ponders the advice.

"Ahh! You are right! How could I be so stupid? I need to see him right away. Thank you for the coffee!"

Alice jumps up from the cafe table, darts towards the exit of the cafe, and runs toward her car.

Chris's mom remains seated at the cafe table with a grin on her face, and her arms crossed.

"These kids," she says with a hearty laugh.

"They know what to do. Sometimes they just need a few words of encouragement."