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Annika had never been out on a date before, despite being asked a couple of times. In fact, she was sure this wasn't even a date, no matter what her friends said. They made sure she wore her best dress—a yellow, floral printed dress that reached till her knees—and she barely managed to avoid having them do her makeup. Even before leaving, she read Shivaay's text multiple times just to make sure she hadn't misunderstood, and that he had actually asked her out for coffee. Wired Puppy, Boston, 5 PM.

When she reached, Shivaay was already seated on one of the tables outside, scrolling through his phone. He wore a white shirt, sleeves rolled up till his elbows, with khakis. He stood up when Annika approached and they smiled at each other their trademark awkward smiles that were reserved for one other. It was difficult for Annika to digest the fact that she was actually out for coffee with her crush (and more difficult to digest the butterflies in her stomach). She was afraid that this would be as clumsy a 'date' as could be, but thankfully for her, Shivaay started talking and they eased into a comfortable conversation. Annika realized Shivaay really wasn't the arrogant Harvard boy she had thought he was and before she knew it, the sun had set, and it was time for them to leave, seeing how Shivaay had a long way to cover to return back to campus. It was just when they were both gathering up their cups from the table, that Shivaay's phone rang. The caller ID said 'Tia'. Shivaay threw an apprehensive glance at Annika before picking up. Unfortunately for Annika, whoever this girl was, she had a pretty loud and shrill voice, so much so that she could hear every word that was spoken on the other side of the line.

"Shivaay baby, where are you?" Asked the person in a piercing tone, making Shivaay almost flinch. Annika's stomach dropped. Moving a bit away, Shivaay spoke in hushed tones, before hanging up and returning to where Annika stood.

"Girlfriend?" She asked, mustering up a smile. He nodded uncomfortably.

"Yeah, but..."

"I should really get going," Annika interrupted, slinging her tote bag over one shoulder. "It's getting dark."

"Yeah, of course," Shivaay nodded. "Um, I'll see you around?"

Annika only gave him a smile before leaving. There was no way she would meet him again because now, it really was high time she got over her crush.