Chapter 4

One morning, while on their way to New York, they stop at a quaint roadside diner for breakfast. The aroma of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon fills the air, mingling with the chatter of truckers and locals alike. Samantha, her eyes still a little sleepy, reaches across the table to hold Amelia’s hand, smiling at the simple beauty of their shared life.

Amelia glances down at her ring, the diamond glinting in the neon glow of the diner’s sign. It’s a stark contrast to the grime of the road, but somehow, it feels perfectly at home. The couple orders their usual – eggs, toast, and hash browns for Samantha, pancakes with a side of fruit for Amelia. They talk about the city ahead, planning their short stay. They’ve never been to New York together, and the excitement of exploring the bustling metropolis is palpable.

As they eat, a young man at the counter catches their eye. His disheveled hair and tired eyes suggest he’s been on the road for days. He’s scribbling something into a notebook, pausing every now and then to sip his coffee. His gaze lingers on them, curiosity piqued by the love so openly displayed between two women. They return to their conversation, the comfort of their shared secrets and laughter creating a bubble around them.

The waitress, a middle-aged woman with a name tag reading “Dot,” refills their mugs with the dark, steaming liquid. She glances at the ring on Amelia’s finger and her smile widens. “Congratulations,” she says warmly, “I hope you two enjoy your stay in the city.”

Samantha and Amelia thank her, feeling a little self-conscious under the spotlight of her kindness. They continue their conversation, the words flowing easily as the miles had under their car’s wheels. The diner’s vinyl seats stick to their skin in the warmth, and the sound of the bell above the door signals the comings and goings of patrons. The young man at the counter finishes his coffee and approaches their booth, his notebook tucked under his arm.

“Excuse me,” he says, his voice a little shaky, “I couldn’t help but notice your ring. I don’t mean to intrude, but I’ve got a bit of a ... situation.” He glances around the diner, then lowers his voice. “Could I ask for a little help?”

Samantha and Amelia exchange a quick look. They’ve encountered curious stares before, but something about this man seems genuine. They nod in unison, inviting him to sit. He slides into the booth opposite them, his eyes darting to their joined hands, then quickly back up to their faces. He explains that he’s a writer, on a cross-country trip to find inspiration for his next novel. His car broke down just outside of town, leaving him stranded. He shows them a crumpled map with a highlighted route to New York, where his publisher is waiting for him.

“I was supposed to be there yesterday,” he says, the weight of his deadline pressing down on him. “But now I’m just trying to get back on track.”