song talk

It was a chilly afternoon, the kind that made you crave the warmth of a cozy coffee shop. Y/n sat in their favorite corner, the one farthest from the door and closest to the large bay window. Their hair was tied up in a messy bun, a few stray strands framing their face as they tapped away on their laptop, crafting a story that had become the highlight of their week.

Awsten Knight shuffled into the bustling coffee shop, his expression a mix of boredom and irritation. The lead singer of Waterparks wasn't exactly a fan of crowded places, but he needed his caffeine fix. As he scanned the room, his eyes landed on a familiar face he'd hoped to avoid: Michael Clifford.

Awsten sighed, gritting his teeth as he approached the counter. He couldn't quite understand why they kept running into each other. It was as if the universe was playing some kind of cruel joke on him. Their encounters were always awkward, tinged with an unspoken tension that neither was willing to address.

Michael, meanwhile, was oblivious to Awsten's disdain. He was seated at a table near the counter, engaged in a spirited conversation with a barista about the merits of oat milk over almond. His laughter was infectious, drawing the attention of everyone around him, including Awsten.

"Hey, Awsten!" Michael called out, waving enthusiastically as if they were old friends. Awsten gave a reluctant nod, choosing to focus on the menu board instead. He didn't have the energy for small talk, especially not with someone he didn't particularly like.

Despite his best efforts to remain unnoticed, Michael was persistent. He took his coffee and slid into the seat across from Awsten, a wide grin plastered on his face. "What are the odds, huh? We keep running into each other. Maybe it's fate."

"Or maybe it's just poor timing," Awsten muttered, taking a sip of his freshly brewed Americano. He tried to ignore the way Michael seemed to light up the room with his presence, a stark contrast to his own brooding demeanor.

Michael chuckled, undeterred by Awsten's cold reception. "You know, I've always thought we could make a great collaboration. Your music, my music—it could be something amazing."

Awsten raised an eyebrow, skepticism etched into his features. "We're not exactly in the same genre, Michael. And besides, I'm not sure our fans would appreciate it."

Michael leaned back, thoughtful. "True, but sometimes the best things come from unexpected places. Maybe we're supposed to challenge each other."

Awsten couldn't help but ponder Michael's words. As much as he disliked admitting it, there was a kernel of truth in what Michael said. They were both artists, albeit with different styles, but maybe there was room for a blend of their worlds.

The conversation continued, each exchange slowly chipping away at the wall of animosity Awsten had built. He found himself laughing at Michael's jokes, a surprising camaraderie forming over their shared love of music and coffee.

As the afternoon light began to fade, Awsten realized that perhaps running into Michael wasn't such a bad thing after all. Maybe, just maybe, the universe was trying to tell him something.

With a newfound sense of curiosity, Awsten stood, extending his hand. "Maybe you're right, Michael. Let's see where this leads."

Michael shook his hand, his smile genuine. "I knew you'd come around."

And so, in the cozy warmth of the coffee shop, surrounded by the comforting aroma of roasted beans, an unlikely friendship began to brew.