Chapter 9: A date
Tyson stood at the crossroad, his gaze fixed on the big LED screen scaled on the side of the building. The hologram on the screen appeared lifelike, a man's figure speaking presently to the crowd below as though he were right there in the street with them.
The bright lights reflected off the surrounding buildings, creating a glowing atmosphere as people bustled along the pavement.
The sound of footsteps, muffled conversations, and distant honking cars mixed, creating an environment of the city's usual buzz.
Tyson's pulse sped slightly, and he glanced down at his advanced-looking wristwatch. The device glinted under the streetlights.
He wiped a nervous hand across his forehead, then straightened up. It's just a tour, he reminded himself, nothing to be nervous about.
Yet, despite his reassurances, the thought of meeting Nancy for their first unofficial date had his stomach tied in knots. He'd agreed to show her around but something about it felt different—this wasn't the casual hanging-out they'd done before. This time, he was hyper-aware of her presence, of what it might mean. Just a tour guide... but his mind couldn't stop wandering.
Turning, he caught sight of Nancy, her relaxed stride carrying her toward him. She smiled when she saw him, that familiar smile that had always made him feel safe.
"Hey," she greeted, her outfit a mix of a pink light dress, a black jacket, and high-knee shoes. With each step, her bouncy ponytail swayed as she walked toward him. "You're not lost, are you?" Her eyes sparkled with playful amusement, and Tyson found himself smiling.
"Nope, just... making sure I'm on time," he replied, there was fluttering feeling in his chest.
"Well, look at you, all punctual and serious," she teased, her smile widening. "I thought this is going to be fun"
He chuckled, "Guess I'll try to be a little more fun then."