Dating : The Things We Shared

“One Grande Cafe Americano for Gin.”

I was on my way to the counter but you already grabbed MY coffee. Who the hell do you think you are?

“Hi, uhhm that’s mine?” I smiled at you, the kind that purses the lips to hide the grin.

“Ah no, wait, this is my black coffee? Are you — ? I’m Jean.” You quipped back but looked confused, with your index finger pointed at yourself. You had an identity crisis for a moment there.

From how you said your name, I now get the mix-up. I had two options then: Start a TED talk discussing the difference between cafe americano and black coffee, or just bluntly tell you you got it wrong. But I noticed you were busy craning your neck, looking for a place to sit. So I settled for the kinder yet quicker method.

“Hey, I think our names sound alike…and I guess we like the same coffee, too. I’m Gin, with a ‘G.’ Can you check the name on the cup?”

You removed your thumb which was perfectly placed, concealing the written name.

Gin.

“Oh fuck.” You subsequently look at the cup, at the barista, at me, then back to the cup in horror.

Pin drop silence.

“One Grande…Cafe Americano for…Jean?” The barista slowly interjected by saying the exact line but slowly and sounding apologetic this time. I noticed he was eavesdropping in our awkward exchange.

“Oh…I’m Jean. Ha ha. THAT is my coffee. Ha ha,” you said, attempting to grab the newly served beverage but your hand quickly retreated, “ No wait, I’m so sorry! Did you order the same thing? Do you still want this?” You asked while still looking around, either you’re still finding a place to sit, or maybe you’re aiming for the exit now.

I confirmed and explained there’s no harm done. A different name on my cup wouldn’t change the coffee experience. We just laughed it off. I offered the vacant chair on my table since I reckoned you still haven’t found one. You seemed hesitant but after a quick sweep in the surrounding, you kind of looked defeated.

“Relaaax! It’s just sharing tables. And it’s not the first time we shared something.” I gave a gentle chuckle.

We walked towards my table and I was readying our conversation starter: Cafe americano it, not black coffee! From the counter and up until we sat, you refused to give eye contact. So maybe it’s time for some formal introduction.

“Hi, I didn’t catch your name. I’m Gin.”

You kind of spit your coffee as you smiled. “Nice meeting you, Gin. I’m Jean.”