Context:
Aaron and Mika have already chatted and called.
Now they’re meeting in person for coffee after work on a Friday evening in BGC.
Mika walks into the café, spots Aaron, and gives a small wave. Aaron stands up immediately.
Aaron:
Hi. Mika?
Mika:
Hi. Aaron?
Aaron:
Yep. Nice to finally meet you in person.
Mika:
Nice to meet you too.
And wow, okay. You look exactly like your photos.
Aaron:
That sounds like a suspiciously diplomatic compliment.
Mika:
No, I mean it.
You’re not one of those “slightly different in person” people.
Aaron:
That’s a relief. I was worried you’d walk in and say, “Ay, iba pala.”
Mika:
Hahaha, no.
Though I did prepare a backup exit plan in case.
Aaron:
Backup exit plan agad? Grabe. High standards.
Mika:
I like to be prepared.
Professional habit.
Aaron:
Ah, yes. Brand marketer with exit strategies.
Very intimidating.
Mika:
You should be intimidated. I’m efficient.
Aaron:
Noted. I’ll behave.
They both smile. Mika takes her seat, sets down her bag, and looks around.
Mika:
This place is nice. Quiet.
Aaron:
Yeah, I remembered you said you liked calm spaces.
Mika:
Aw. You remembered that.
Aaron:
Of course I did.
Mika:
Hmm. That’s points for you.
Aaron:
Points?
Mika:
Yes. You get points for being observant.
Aaron:
Okay, I like this system already.
How many points do I have right now?
Mika:
Let me calculate.
For remembering my preference, showing up on time, and not being weird in person... maybe 7 out of 10.
Aaron:
Only 7?
Mika:
You still have room to impress me.
Aaron:
Pressure.
I should’ve worn a better shirt.
Mika:
Too late now.
A server comes over. They order drinks.
Aaron:
You okay with iced latte again?
Mika:
Hmm, yes.
How do you know me so well already?
Aaron:
Lucky guess. Or stalking. One of the two.
Mika:
Hahaha, if you were stalking me, you’d be more coordinated.
Aaron:
Wow. Ouch.
This is a very aggressive first date.
Mika:
First meet. Not date.
Unless you want to claim this as a date?
Aaron:
I mean... I wasn’t going to say it first.
Mika:
Oh? Why not?
Aaron:
Because I like to be respectful and not assume.
Mika:
Hmm. Good answer.
Slightly safe, but good.
Aaron:
I’ll take slightly safe over completely reckless.
Mika:
Fair.
They both laugh. A small pause follows, but it feels comfortable.
Mika:
Okay, serious question.
Aaron:
Go.
Mika:
Were you this quiet in person because you’re shy, or because you’re trying to look mysterious?
Aaron:
Neither.
I’m just taking my time.
Mika:
That sounds suspiciously like a polished answer.
Aaron:
It is.
But the real answer is I’m a little nervous, and you’re making it hard to act normal.
Mika:
Me? Why?
Aaron:
Because you’re prettier in person than on the app.
Mika blinks, then smiles, clearly amused.
Mika:
Ay, wow.
Okay. Straight to dangerous territory agad.
Aaron:
Was that too much?
Mika:
No.
Just unexpected.
Aaron:
Good unexpected or bad unexpected?
Mika:
Good.
Very good.
Aaron:
Okay, great. I can breathe again.
Mika:
So you do get nervous.
Aaron:
Only when the person across from me has a sharp tongue and a nice face.
Mika:
Sharp tongue, wow.
Aaron:
You know it’s true.
Mika:
Maybe.
But you’re not exactly helpless yourself. You’ve got that calm guy thing going on.
Aaron:
Calm guy thing?
Mika:
Yeah.
The kind who looks like he’s always thinking before he speaks.
Aaron:
That’s because I am.
Mika:
Hmm. Dangerous.
Smart and quiet. Mahirap yan.
Aaron:
Mahirap? For who?
Mika:
For people who can’t read you.
Aaron:
And can you read me?
Mika:
A little.
Aaron:
What do you think you see?
Mika:
Hmm.
You seem like someone who tries to be composed, but probably overthinks more than you admit.
Aaron laughs, caught.
Aaron:
That was uncomfortably accurate.
Mika:
I know.
Aaron:
You really do talk like that in person.
Mika:
Like what?
Aaron:
Like you know exactly what you’re doing.
Mika:
I do know what I’m doing.
Aaron:
That’s the problem.
Mika:
Why is that a problem?
Aaron:
Because now I have to try harder.
Mika:
You’re already trying?
Aaron:
A little.
Mika:
I noticed.
The drinks arrive. Aaron thanks the server and turns back to Mika.
Aaron:
Okay, so the app photos were accurate, but the real-life version is more dangerous.
Mika:
Dangerous?
Aaron:
Yes.
You’re easier to talk to face to face, which is inconvenient for my self-control.
Mika:
Ay. Self-control pa talaga.
Aaron:
I’m being honest.
Mika:
I appreciate that.
Though I’m not sure if I should be flattered or concerned.
Aaron:
Both, probably.
Mika:
Hahaha. Okay. Fair.
They both sip their drinks.
Mika:
So, tell me.
Are you always this composed, or do you just look that way in public?
Aaron:
Mostly composed.
Sometimes I’m just internally panicking very quietly.
Mika:
That’s actually cute.
Aaron:
There it is again.
Mika:
What?
Aaron:
You keep saying things that sound harmless but somehow land very well.
Mika:
Maybe I’m just naturally charming.
Aaron:
That’s one theory.
Mika:
What’s your theory?
Aaron:
That you enjoy watching people get slightly flustered.
Mika:
Maybe a little.
Aaron:
I knew it.
Mika:
You’re not mad, though.
Aaron:
No.
Actually, I think I like it.
Mika:
Good.
A short pause. Mika smiles into her drink.
Mika:
You know, I expected you to be more talkative.
Aaron:
I thought the same about you.
Mika:
Really?
Aaron:
Yeah.
I thought you’d be more serious in person.
But you’re... mischievous.
Mika:
Mischievous? That’s a strong word.
Aaron:
Is it wrong?
Mika:
No.
Just... not the first word I’d use for myself.
Aaron:
What word would you use?
Mika:
Smart. Calm. Busy.
Sometimes tired.
Aaron:
Those are accurate.
But mischievous is definitely in the hidden folder.
Mika:
Hidden folder? Hahaha.
Aaron:
Yeah.
I’m starting to think you have a whole second personality that only comes out when someone says something slightly interesting.
Mika:
Maybe.
You’ll have to earn access.
Aaron:
Access to what exactly?
Mika:
To the better version.
Aaron:
That sounds like a challenge.
Mika:
It is.
Aaron leans back a little, smiling.
Aaron:
Okay. Challenge accepted.
Mika:
Good.
You seem more confident now.
Aaron:
That’s because you’re smiling more.
Mika:
Oh? So my smile is doing work?
Aaron:
Yes.
Very distracting work.
Mika:
Distracting from what?
Aaron:
From the fact that I was supposed to be calm and collected this whole time.
Mika:
You are calm and collected.
Aaron:
I’m trying to be.
Mika:
It shows.
But you’re also a little cute when you’re trying hard.
Aaron stares at her for a second, then laughs, slightly embarrassed.
Aaron:
You do this on purpose, don’t you?
Mika:
Do what?
Aaron:
Say something flirty, then act innocent.
Mika:
Flirty? Wow.
Who, me?
Aaron:
Yes, you.
Mika:
Hmm. I think you’re just sensitive.
Aaron:
Says the woman who just called me cute.
Mika:
That was just an observation.
Aaron:
A very effective one.
Mika:
Good.
I like effective communication.
Aaron:
Do you? Because your communication style is starting to feel like a personal attack.
Mika:
It’s not an attack.
It’s testing.
Aaron:
Of course it is.
Mika:
You’re passing so far.
Aaron:
Only passing?
Mika:
Don’t get greedy.
They both laugh again, more comfortably now.
Aaron:
Okay, let me ask you something.
Mika:
Go ahead.
Aaron:
Do you act this sweet in person, or is this also part of your strategy?
Mika:
Sweet?
That’s your read?
Aaron:
Yes.
You have a very specific kind of sweetness.
Not loud. Not obvious.
But it’s there.
Mika looks at him, a little surprised, then glances away with a smile.
Mika:
You say things very directly.
Aaron:
Is that bad?
Mika:
No.
Just dangerous for someone who likes to keep her cool.
Aaron:
So you admit you’re not fully cool.
Mika:
I never said that.
Aaron:
You didn’t have to.
Mika:
Wow. Okay.
You’re getting bold now.
Aaron:
Maybe because you’re bringing it out of me.
Mika:
Mmm. Convenient excuse.
Aaron:
It’s a very valid one.
A brief silence follows, but neither of them looks uncomfortable. Mika watches him for a moment.
Mika:
You know what I like so far?
Aaron:
What?
Mika:
You’re not trying too hard to impress me, but I can tell you care.
Aaron softens a little, then nods.
Aaron:
I do care.
Mika:
I can tell.
Aaron:
That’s important to me.
I don’t really enjoy shallow chemistry.
Mika:
Same.
Aaron:
Though to be clear, the chemistry here is not shallow.
Mika:
Oh?
What kind is it then?
Aaron:
Still collecting data.
Mika:
Uh-huh. Very safe answer again.
Aaron:
I’m trying to earn the better version of you, remember?
Mika:
And how’s that going?
Aaron:
Pretty well, I think.
Mika:
Confident.
Aaron:
Only because you keep encouraging me.
Mika:
I’m not encouraging you. I’m teasing you.
Aaron:
Same result.
Mika laughs, shaking her head slightly.
Mika:
Okay, another question.
Aaron:
Sure.
Mika:
What’s your type?
Aaron looks at her for a second, clearly amused by the timing.
Aaron:
Physically or personality-wise?
Mika:
You may answer both if you’re brave enough.
Aaron:
Brave enough, huh?
Okay. Personality first: calm, intelligent, direct, and someone who can laugh at herself.
Physically... someone with a nice smile.
Mika:
That’s suspiciously convenient.
Aaron:
Why?
Mika:
Because every woman with a smile is now in your type.
Aaron:
No.
Only the one sitting across from me seems to be causing a problem.
Mika holds his gaze, then smiles slowly.
Mika:
There you go again.
Aaron:
What now?
Mika:
Flirting like it’s a business presentation.
Aaron:
Is it working?
Mika:
A little.
Aaron:
Okay.
Your turn. What’s your type?
Mika:
Hmm.
Someone consistent. Kind. Mature.
And someone who can banter without being rude.
Aaron:
That sounds like a very specific set of standards.
Mika:
It is. I’ve learned.
Aaron:
And physically?
Mika:
Hmm.
I like someone clean-looking.
Good posture helps.
And someone who smiles a lot when they’re not trying to look cool.
Aaron laughs, already knowing where this is going.
Aaron:
That seems very targeted.
Mika:
Maybe.
Aaron:
And here I was trying to be cool.
Mika:
You can still be cool.
Just not too cool.
A little warmth is better.
Aaron:
Noted.
I’ll reduce the cool factor.
Mika:
Good.
It’s safer for both of us.
They sip their drinks. The tension is pleasant, not awkward.
Aaron:
I have to say, meeting you in person is even better than the calls.
Mika:
Oh really?
Aaron:
Yes.
Because now I know your expressions are just as dangerous as your words.
Mika:
Dangerous again.
You really like that word.
Aaron:
Because it fits.
Mika:
Maybe I should be offended.
Aaron:
You don’t seem offended.
Mika:
I’m not.
Aaron:
What are you, then?
Mika:
Entertained.
Aaron smiles, a little more openly now.
Aaron:
Good.
That was the goal.
Mika:
Was it?
Aaron:
Yeah.
If I’m being honest, I wanted to make you smile in person.
Mika looks at him for a moment, then her smile softens.
Mika:
You did.
Aaron:
Nice.
Mika:
You know, you’re actually better in person than I expected too.
Aaron:
Better how?
Mika:
More relaxed. More charming.
And a little more playful than you let on.
Aaron:
That’s because I was saving the premium version.
Mika:
Premium version, wow.
Aaron:
Yeah.
You only get that when the company is worth it.
Mika:
And is it worth it?
Aaron smiles, holding her gaze.
Aaron:
So far, yes.
Mika smiles back, a bit shy this time.
Mika:
Good answer.
A comfortable pause follows. The café noise fades into the background as they both lean in slightly, still smiling.
Aaron:
So, should I be honest?
Mika:
Always.
Aaron:
I was worried the chemistry would only exist on chat and call.
But now I think... we’re actually more fun in person.
Mika:
I was thinking the same thing.
Aaron:
Really?
Mika:
Yes.
You’re easier to tease in person.
Aaron:
That sounds like a warning.
Mika:
It is.
Aaron:
Good to know.
Mika:
Also... you’re not bad at this.
Aaron:
“At this”?
Mika:
This.
The whole getting-to-know-you thing.
Aaron:
I’m trying my best.
Mika:
It shows.
And it’s kind of attractive when someone is sincere and slightly nervous.
Aaron:
You’re enjoying this way too much.
Mika:
Maybe I am.
Aaron:
Should I be worried?
Mika:
Only if you plan to escape.
Aaron:
Too late. I already ordered coffee. I’m trapped.
Mika:
Hahaha. Good.
A server comes by to check on them. They both say they’re fine.
Mika:
So.
Same question as before.
Aaron:
Which one?
Mika:
Would you like to do this again?
Aaron answers without hesitation this time.
Aaron:
Yes. Definitely.
Mika:
Good.
Aaron:
You?
Mika:
Yes.
But next time, I pick the place.
Aaron:
Oh no. What kind of place am I getting myself into?
Mika:
Somewhere you can’t hide behind your coffee.
Aaron:
That sounds suspiciously threatening.
Mika:
Maybe I’m just making sure you keep up.
Aaron:
I’ll try to survive.
Mika:
You will.
You’re tougher than you look.
Aaron:
And you’re more mischievous than you admit.
Mika:
We’ve already discussed this.
Aaron:
True.
But I’m enjoying the discovery.
Mika looks at him, smile lingering.
Mika:
Same.
Aaron glances at his watch.
Aaron:
We should probably get going soon if you still have a long ride home.
Mika:
Yeah. Unfortunately, the city still expects us to be responsible adults.
Aaron:
Rude of it, really.
Mika:
Very rude.
They stand up, gathering their things.
Aaron:
I’ll walk you out.
Mika:
Chivalrous. Nice.
Aaron:
I’m trying to earn bonus points.
Mika:
You already earned some. Don’t get too excited.
Aaron:
No promises.
They walk toward the exit together.
Mika:
Thanks for tonight, Aaron.
Aaron:
Thanks for coming, Mika.
Honestly, I had a really good time.
Mika:
Me too.
Aaron:
Text me when you get home?
Mika:
I will.
Don’t act too eager now.
Aaron:
Too late.
Mika:
Hahaha. Goodnight, Aaron.
Aaron:
Goodnight, Mika.
They exchange one last smile before she leaves, and Aaron watches her go with the kind of expression that says he is definitely planning the next meet already.