From Across The Hall – 17

Sam’s not at work today.

Ruben knows this because he has monitored the coffee shop even more carefully than usual since Sam’s visit. The sight of his favourite barista not once coming into view. He tries not to feel maudlin for it, or worry that perhaps Sam has gone back to that other store. Though he is thinking of it reproachfully for stealing Sam away—even if that isn’t the case, and it’s a place he’s never been to in his life.

“What’s up with you?” Mark asks when Ruben has finished rin...