The Reader.

The gentle hum of traffic is muffled by the single pane of glass

in the quiet cafe.

Soft lilac coloured light in the late autumn day outside contrasts

with the warm orange glow inside.

Friends regularly meet here for morning coffee and lively discussion;

but today, the patrons are quiet and thoughtful,

clutching their cups and gazing out of the windows.

The low level of light on this day in the city has created a feeling of lethargy.

*

Separate from them,

a girl sits close to another window, head bowed over her book,

and with shoulders slightly rounded.

Soft lamp light tries to touch her face

but her dark hair curtains her face partially, giving her a feeling of seclusion.

*

The girl’s eyes dart like dragonflies across each page –

the book has reached a plot twist –

and pages whisper as she turns them.

Her coffee sits on the low wooden table;

steam curls lazily from the black liquid,

and the slightly warmed pastry sits untouched next to it.

The book holds her full attention for now.

*

A barista walks past, carrying a tray, intent on clearing tables.

The reader glances up, eyes momentarily drawn by the movement.

She smiles at the barista, then quickly returns

to devour the intense dialogue happening between the two main characters.

*

Around her the coffee grinder whirrs,

gentle music plays,

and the door opens and closes,

letting in the traffic noises for a moment,

but the reader doesn’t look up;

sounds wash around her and she sits quietly,

shoulders slightly rounded,

hair creating a curtain of seclusion,

and the light softly touching her face.

***

Inspired by something I love to do.

Thanks for reading ;)