The Town Plaza

Ian

I get home and change out of my dress clothes, wearing grey sweatpants and a white t-shirt instead. Grabbing my workout bag, I head to the park and hope that the track and area around it aren't too crowded today

Ella

I drop near a tree and form a book out of light befor it turns solid. I start reading it and take a deep breath, biting my lip.

Ian

I see the girl again but make nothing off it, continuing to the track. Once there, I set my bag near a bench i claim nearly every day and change into my running shoes. All set, I take off in a jog on my first lap.

Ella

By the end of the first chapter, I glance up to see that boy again. I study him before looking back down.

Ian

On my third lap, I break into a run instead and think through my schedule for tomorrow as I do.

Ella

I get a text from my mom and check my phone, telling her I'm here.

Ian

Around four laps later, I stop and plop beside my bag to catch my breath. I take a few sips of water and dab my forehead with a towel. Probably should have went to the gym...

Ella

The guy stops jogging and I check the map on my phone before hesitantly walking to him. I clear my throat before speaking, "D-Do you know where the nearest grocery store is?" I ask, crossing my arms insecurely.

Ian

I glance at the girl and study her before nodding, "Yeah. It's about a half-mile from here, on the other side of the street from the inn."

I hesitate before going on, sighing.

"I'll show you if you want."

Ella

I nod slowly but take a step back, "You...You don't have to if you want."

Ian

I sigh and stand, slinging my bag over my shoulder again, "It's fine. I've got to go into town anyway. This way."

Ella

I hesitate before following him, tense.

Ian

I walk slowly, noticing how tense she is, "Where you from?"

Ella

I glance at him, "New York. Y-You?"

Ian

"Originally," I pause, "Sicily. My parents moved me out here before my twelfth birthday though. I go back every summer."