Will was visiting his favorite book store, even though it was more than just books. It was always a good place for gifts for friends and family, and always worth a look for anything that caught his eye. And something did catch his eye here every time he visited. Especially the manager named Kim.
She was an older lady. Well, older for Will anyways. Will was 24 and she was easily twice his age. Normally he'd be turned off by that. But something about Kim just did it for him. Maybe it was the dark pixie haircut she always wore. Or the tight t-shirts that perfectly showoff her petite figure. Maybe it was the simple fact she was always bending over putting books away so he saw her tiny ass a lot. Whatever the reason, she was always a highlight to his visits.
This bookstore also had a coffee shop, so Will always liked to get a drink to sip while walking around. He had a small selection of things in his basket, but he wanted to read a quick bit on this new book that just released. He found a table and set his things down. He opened to the first chapter and got a few paragraphs in. Will heard the sound of footsteps coming approach him.
It was Kim. "Hi, I see you're reading the latest big adventure novel that has come in. I don't normally talk to customers like this, but I i see you in here all the time. I had an advance copy and finished it yesterday and I loved it. The drama and suspense were so great and almost distracted from the romantic subplot. I recommend it very much."
Will didn't know how to really respond. "Um, thanks. I was gonna read a bit if the first chapter to see if it was worth picking up. Had to get some other things for my sister as a present." Will gestured towards the basket.
"That makes sense. Some of these are definitely not what I'd call manly, Haha."
"You're right about that." Said Will.
"Listen." said Kim, a long pause from her. "I was dared to approach you from my assistants." Kim gestured to the front of the store where two younger ladies were watching and giggling. "We took bets and I lost. I wanted to know..." Kim looked down, a hint if red blush was in her cheeks. "Wanted to know... Gosh this is so hard." Kim looked Will in the eyes. "We all think you're cute, and if you had a girlfriend." Again she paused and looked away. Lite laughter came from the front of the store.
Will was kind of shocked to hear this. "No, I'm single." He sputtered out. A small look of joy behind bright red cheeks appeared on Kim's face.
"So, umm..... If you wanted, I know I'm probably not your type. Would you like to go on a date?" Kim asked very shyly and looked away again. More laughter.
Will stared at Kim till she looked at him again. Is she serious? After a few seconds, Will responded "Yeah, sure. You free tonight?" Kim's face went from shy to excited, a huge grin appeared.
"Oh my god, that was so awkward and hard. I can't believe i actually did that." The two girls up front started cheering.
"Yeah, you did it!"
"You're amazing!"
Will and Kim exchanged phone numbers. They agreed to meet back at the store around 9 PM since Kim had to close today. Will went home and prepared for his date. It'll be later so probably just a chain restaurant where they can chat and maybe get drinks. The age difference was large so will we have enough to talk about? Thoughts like that went through his head as he prepared.
About closing time Will returned to the bookstore. It was dark and he didn't want to just wait outside so he went in. He found Kim at the register, looking exhausted. The store was pretty much empty and she was looking a little stressed. Will approached her.
"Oh. Hi again, Will. I'm sorry I'm running a bit late. My closer called in sick and I've been stocking and running register and had no time to do paperwork. I'm sorry but I might have to cancel if this takes too long." The look on her face was disappointment. This wasn't an excuse, she genuinely looked upset to miss out on her date.
"I can just wait in the coffee shop area till you're done." Will responded. He was looking forward to this date. He studied things for possible discussion topics, and even put on his cologne he kept in case of an emergency.
"Oh, that sounds lovely. I just need to make sure no one else is here first." And as Will walked to the café area, Kim rushed to lock the doors and ran off towards the restrooms. While Will sat he watched Kim going up and down the aisles, a small stack of books in her hands. She set them on a cart by her office and returned to the front where she was doing her business papers while running shop during the evening.