Page 13 of Hearts & Embers

"Don't."

A smile tugged at the corner of her mouth.

"I haven't said anything."

"You were about to."

"I was merely observing."

Before I could continue the argument, Jasper turned slightly and our eyes met. Recognition appeared almost immediately. For a brief moment neither of us moved. Then he smiled.

The gesture was simple, polite, and entirely appropriate given the circumstances. Nevertheless, warmth spread unexpectedly through my chest. He hesitated briefly before approaching, which suggested he was attempting to determine whether interrupting would be welcome.

"Aurora."

His voice sounded exactly as I remembered.

"Hi."

The response felt embarrassingly inadequate.

Fortunately, amusement flickered briefly across his expression.

"It's good to see you out of the hospital."

"It's good to be out of the hospital."

"How are you doing?"

The question sounded simple, but there was genuine concern behind it.

"Better than I was a week ago."

"That's good."

"I still hate crutches."

A smile touched his mouth.

"I don't think anyone likes crutches."

"They should come with a warning label."

"About what?"

"How many things you're capable of dropping when both hands are occupied."

That earned a quiet laugh.

"I'll keep that in mind."

The conversation settled into an easy rhythm almost immediately. During my hospital stay, I had occasionally wondered whether seeing him again would feel awkward. Instead, it felt surprisingly natural. Perhaps the difference came from the absence of sirens, medical equipment, and immediate danger. We weren't firefighter and patient anymore. We were simply two people having a conversation inside a coffee shop.

Elyssa cleared her throat and I glanced in her direction. Jasper followed my gaze.

"Sorry, we've never actually met. I'm Jasper," he said, offering his hand.

"Elyssa," she responded shaking his hand. "Aurora's best friend."