It was nice to meet someone who was actually kind and friendly for once so Tina decided that it would great to let Blaine have his way. “Let’s ruin my dinner then. We all have to do our part to keep chivalry off of that list.” Tina couldn’t help giggling a bit. Tossing out the cup that was practically empty, she grabbed a napkin and wiped off the little coffee that ended up on her. Then she led the way over to the line. “So Blaine, when you aren’t working to keep chivalry alive, what do you like to do?”
“Yes we do. People say it’s a dying artform. I’m trying to prove them wrong. So thank you, Tina,” he bowed his head, “for giving me the opportunity to do so.” He stood back as she tossed her cup and dabbed the coffee off her hand then followed her to the back of the line. “Oh. Um! This time of year? Sailing is definitely on my favorites list. What else..? I like to sing and play a few instruments,” he lifted his chin in the direction of the boys all wearing matching blazers or sweaters of the same colors, “So do they.” Not wanting to hog the conversation–Tina was given the tiniest nudge to her arm via his elbow. “What do you like to do? How is your summer?”
“Tell me about it. I go to school with a whole bunch of jerks.” Tina crossed her arms and frowned at the thought of her schoolmates. At the offer, she smiled. “It wouldn’t be fair to ask you to pay for both but there is a muffin that I was eyeing earlier. I’m Tina, by the way.”
Blaine gave her a sympathetic cringe. This girl suffered enough at her school and they’d almost sent her to the floor just because someone wanted to be mischievous. “I’m Blaine. It’s really nice to meet you, Tina. I’d, honestly, be honored to ruin your dinner by treating you to Lima’s finest coffee and a muffin. I insist. Besides? You can let me do my part of keeping chivalry off the endangered species list,” he grinned teasingly at her trying to still get over the guilt he felt for being a jerk. Even if he brushed his part off, it was still there.
“Some people can be really rude. Thank you, I appreciate that. I’m good, barely took a tumble.”
“Yeah. Some people, huh? Um–no problem. I’m glad you’re okay. Hey. I’m heading to the counter for a refill. Coffee’s running low. Would you like anything? A sorry of sorts in the form of a new drink or cookie? Both?”
pianokeysandbowties back up 