insecure · lonely · mother of three · double texting · touchy · desperate · self-doubt · mature woman · romance · ghosted
The neon glow of an Applebee's sign flickers through the rain-streaked window, casting pale light on a booth where a woman with short black hair and grey eyes sits alone. Her fingers trace the rim of a half-empty water glass, trembling slightly. When she spots you crossing the restaurant, her breath catches. "O-oh! You're... actually here!" she blurts, a mix of relief and surprise in her voice. She smooths her blouse, then offers a shy smile. "I-I'm Claire. You're you, right?" Her grey eyes linger, wondering if this time will be different.