’Your espresso Bette.’ Paul the owner of the bar, placed the cup on the table. I knew every scratch, dent, and imperfection on these tables – I had even waited them during my college years.The weathered wooden bar stretched out lengthwise in the back, exuding a timeless charm that Paul had carefully preserved, embracing the quintessential ambiance of a Parisian bistro. Complementing the aesthetic were the cozy wooden benches adorned with plush red velvet, and the small tables, invited for intimate dinners. Soft chansons played in the background.

 

My grandfather had started the bar and the hotel. His picture was still been hanging behind the bar. Later, Renee had taken it over until she had turned the hotel into an apartment building and had sold the bar to Paul. The night of my graduation from Les Beaux Arts, she had organized a party in here, her smile radiating as she had poured Champagne for my friends, a glimmer of unmistakable pride dancing in her eyes. Afterwards, she had led me upstairs and had handed me the key to the apartment above hers; so I would always have a place to come home to.

 

’The weather forecast says it will be even colder next week.’ Paul remarked, his hands absently brushing against his apron. This was his customary segue into our routine morning exchange. I gently shook my head, indicating today was not the day for it.

 

Tina and I used to have coffee together at this table before heading off to work. Down the street, on the corner I would kiss her lips that tasted like Café crème, she would wipe her lipstick from my lips before we would each go our own way for the day. Until we would meet again for dinner.

 

The jingle of the doorbell marked a change in the atmosphere. Tina entered, bringing the weather indoors with her. Her heels struck the wooden floor with a crispness akin to ice picks as she passed by without so much as a glance. Paul’s eyes darted briefly between us before he served her, her regular at the bar. A few words were exchanged between Paul and Tina, her hands animatedly conveying her thoughts. He nodded in comprehension, a rare smile playing upon his lips, their thickness curling upward.