‘Nadia!’ she heard, a voice she recognized. Across the street was Emma, wearing a yellow rose around her neck. ‘Come here!’
Nadia shook her head, as if to say, ‘What the hell?’ Emma laughed. Nadia knew she must look confused, and that Emma laughed hardest when she looked like a fish out of water.
‘He’s wonderful!’ she said, as Nadia reached her.
‘You met him?’ Nadia said.
Emma nodded. ‘He’s so wonderful, and I just wanted to tell you – don’t worry. Just enjoy it. Enjoy him, okay? He’s … I really like him.’
Nadia didn’t know what to say. Her heart swelled and beat faster, her breathing speeding up to match.
‘I have something I am supposed to tell you, though. Hold on.’ Emma unfolded a piece of paper, where she’d scribbled something down.
‘Ready?’ she asked. Nadia nodded.
‘Coffee Spill Girl. Time to put our money where our mouth is and finally have this date. We’re only about four months behind, but I have no doubt you’re worth the wait. I can’t believe I didn’t say hello to you the first time I saw you. I promise not to make a habit of being so stupid. See you in a minute, Train Guy.’
Nadia rolled her eyes. ‘I was an idiot too,’ she told Emma.
‘Nah,’ Emma said. And then: ‘Okay. Head down that alleyway there. Go. Fall in love.’