The very next second, as the cyclist disappeared down the street, Norah realized what had happened. Her eyes flashed with annoyance as she snapped, "Riding that fast in the pouring rain? Does he have a death wish?"
As the girl spoke, her warm breath brushed against the man's neck. His arms, braced against the armrests of her wheelchair, tensed slightly, and his heart rate spiked.
He looked into her eyes, a faint smirk playing on his lips. "Don't be angry. He doesn't value his own life, so there's no need to waste your energy being mad at him."
Norah shrugged, her eyes bright and clear. "Good point."
Gonzalez didn't pull back. He kept his arms locked on the armrests, his gaze darkening slightly. "I really thought you wouldn't show up today."
They were far too close. Feeling a bit flustered, Norah pressed her back firmly against the wheelchair and offered a polite smile. "I honestly did forget at first, but thankfully my memory kicked in!"
Sensing her deliberate attempt to maintain distance, Gonzalez slowly straightened up. Holding the umbrella with one hand, he effortlessly pushed her wheelchair inside with the other.
Once settled in the bookstore, Norah looked around and smiled. "It's so peaceful today."
Gonzalez nodded slowly. The lack of a crowd meant they could enjoy each other's company in peace. Suddenly, the rainy weather he usually despised didn't seem so terrible after all.
Norah ordered a milk tea and turned to him. "When did you get here?"
Gonzalez paused for a fraction of a second. "After lunch."
Norah looked relieved. "Oh, good. So you weren't waiting too long! Let's make it official then. Every Saturday afternoon, we'll meet right here. If I can't make it, I'll call you in advance."
Gonzalez nodded. "Deal."
"So, where should we start?" she asked with a grin.
He thought about it. "How about the absolute basics?"
"Works for me. I'll go find some beginner textbooks."
"I'll come with you."
Gonzalez stood up and wheeled her toward the business and finance section.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)