Coffee?

Tamela stood there, her mind racing as she considered the impossible dilemma before her. She couldn't wipe Nathaniel's memory, not when she was the one who had made the mistake. Why should he pay the price for her oversight? As her thoughts whirled, she made a spontaneous decision.

Clearing her throat, she finally broke the tense silence between them. "Wha, would you like to join me for a cup of coffee?" she asked haltingly. She felt her face heat.

Nathaniel hesitated for a moment, his gaze focused on the ground, unable to meet her eyes. After a beat, he glanced up and nodded. "Yes, I think that would be a good idea," he replied, a hint of relief in his voice.

They began the walk in silence, each waiting for the other to speak first. Full night had descended, wrapping Centopolis in a cloak of darkness. They were in an area of the city where streetlights were intermittent at best. A crescent moon hung low in the sky, its silvery light barely illuminating the cobblestones. The air was cool, with a slight breeze that carried the scent of rain, promising a possible shower in the near future.

For Tamela, this was an unprecedented experience. She had spent her life hidden in the shadows, Abaddon her only companion. This was the first time she had ventured into the city with a living person other than him. And on top of that, Nathaniel was undeniably attractive. She had no idea how to act. Her heart raced, and she couldn't help but blush. Her breath hitched as she occasionally stole glances at the stranger. What if he thought she was a freak, or worse, a monster?

They eventually arrived in front of a quaint coffee shop nestled among the city's historic buildings. The storefront had an old-world charm, with a rustic wooden sign that read "Café Nocturne" in elegant script. Its storefront was adorned with a welcoming display of hanging flowers and twinkling fairy lights. Warm light spilled through a trio of large windows, inviting passersby inside.

Nathaniel held the door open for Tamela, this small act of courtesy spoke volumes, and she offered him a grateful smile.