Tisha angrily marched inside the café situated on the premises of the corporate building where her office was located. There was a croissant (or several) with her name on it.

Sadly, she could see only one croissant inside the glass-case. She sped up to the counter and placed the order. Only, someone else did it at the same time.

She slowly turned around. It was a guy somewhat of her own age looking at her with a challenge.

She took a deep breath and said, “This is my croissant.”

“Funny I do not see a name displayed on it.”

“Listen, you do not want to mess with me today.”

“I just want my croissant, which I saw much before you came here. There is no need for such dramatics.”

“You may have seen it first but I want it.”

He smirked. “You may want it but I need it more than you.”

That did it for Tisha. Her eyes welled up. “It’s all yours.” She gestured towards the croissant and beat a hasty retreat, finding herself a table beside the window.

***

That was mean, Aditya realized, feeling terrible about what he had said, especially since the girl did seem to be slightly on the heavy side.

“I would like that croissant and two coffees.” He placed the order and remorsefully looked at Tisha who was now wiping her tears and looking very subdued. What had come over me?

***

Tisha was brought out of her reverie when someone sat opposite to her.

“I am Aditya. I am sorry for what I said. I have had a terrible day today and I didn’t mean to be so rude. Here is a peace offering from me.”

Her eyes widened as Aditya ushered the damn croissant and a steaming cup of coffee towards her.

“I am Tisha and usually I am not this mean. But I have had terrible news today. I am yet to recover from a break-up and my ex has already moved on with a new girlfriend.”

“Sorry to know that.”

She nodded. “What happened to you?”

“I am a team-leader and two guys from my own team confronted me and made me look bad in front of the others.”

Tisha broke apart the croissant and handed a piece to Aditya. “I guess we both have earned a croissant today.”

He accepted her offering with a smile. “My office is on the second floor. Where do you work?”

“Third floor.”

“I usually come here around 2 for lunch.”

“I come after 3.”

He watched her eat, his conscience somewhat mollified. He realized he wanted to spend more time with her and know her better.

“Thanks for the croissant and the coffee.” She said once she was done.

He raised his eyebrow. “And the free therapy?”

She giggled. “And for the free therapy. I do feel better.”

Aditya’s expression softened. “See you tomorrow at the same time?”

She smiled and nodded.

They left the café, bound by a silent promise to meet again.