Not with you, but you are the prime topic in the local bar

For a long time, the blue jug was the only restaurant in Cornflower Fields. Around 20 Years ago, the local bakery began to offer coffee and cake at its small terrace. This was not a problem, since the blue jug was rather a tavern and not a café. But then just a year before you left, a third restaurant opened. A small pizza delivery service. It was very popular among the younger people in town. Harold and Paula, the owners of the tavern, considered this competition and it led to an icy tension between the two restaurants. Up to a point where they accused each other for not following competition rules. Claire had to intervene and negotiate.

However, the truth is, that this was mostly pointless, the pizzeria rather delivers their food to the surrounding settlements and only has a hand full of customers in cornflower fields. Most residents meet at the blue jug because it is tradition and has a big barroom. And on this evening, three girls who have been best friends for years meet like usual at their usual table to chat and hang out.

Eve, Nadja and Jessica, the daughter of the local grocery shop owner. Jessica was a really rare sight in this sleepy town. She always dresses in black and with dark makeup which make her look like a goth. She also has a piercing at the lip and a violet colored strand in her hair. Mostly to anger her parents to be honest. Despite her dark outfit, she is very fond of sweets and enjoys baking, which is why she works at the local bakery. People in town view her a weird but harmless eccentric.

“Guys, you will not believe what has happened,” Nadja, who comes last, says excited on her way to the table, “it’s incredible. I already got up hope but it really happened.”

“You grew up and decided to be a responsible adult from now on?” Eve asks slightly mocking.

“Oh, don’t be unrealistic, Eve,” Nadja replies amused and sits down, “Lisa, can you give us the usual please!”

Lisa, the redhead barmaid and also a good friend of the three young women nods and begins to prepare their order.

“Well, what is it?” Eve asks, “I also have some news for you, but you can tell yours first.”

“I have a new job,” Nadja answers happy, “here in town. I can stay here with you.”

“Yeah, great,” Jessica says with a bored, unimpressed voice, “now we'll have you on our toes even further until you mess this up too.”

“Yeah, isn’t that great?” Nadja says happy, “and the best part is, I will work for Max. You heard right. Our old classmate Max has finished his studies and will work here as a doctor. Can you believe it?”

“Congratulation,” Eve says happy, “but actually, I already knew he is back. He met my mom to get the founding for his new office. Still, I’m glad he gave you the job. It’s great to have you here.”

“Hurray, another pervert in town,” Jessica cheers sarcastic, “can’t wait to not meet him after so long time.”

“Max isn’t a pervert,” Eve replies surprising harsh, “don’t you remember him from school?”

“All men are perverts,” Jessica replies teasing, “I have an older brother, so I know what I’m talking about. I bet he has a very strict policy about sexual harassment. It is only forbidden when someone else does it. I don’t like men at all. Maybe I should get a girlfriend just to shock my parents.”

“Don’t be so negative Jess,” Nadja replies and nudges Jessica playfully, “smile a little. And by the way, who says I would mind a little harassment. He is cute, a doctor, and I remember I had a crush on him back in school. I could get a worse boyfriend.”

“Wait, what?” Eve suddenly replies shocked, “you … are interested in him? Like … really? Nad you … you can’t.”

“Why not?” Nadja asks surprised, “I have not much choices anyway. Liam is a jerk, Jess brother never really talked to me and you are not into girls. And why do you care anyway?”

“I … well, it is just … he is my childhood friend and … I saw him first,” Eve mumbles shy while Lisa serves the three drinks.

“Oh my god, Eve,” Nadja says and laughs, “You are into him too? You, the girl everyone wants? Alright, this is going to be interesting. You and me, Eve are rivals now. Let the games begin.”

“Who says I'll leave him to one of you?” Jessica interrupts and grins provoking, “maybe I'll get to him first and snatch him for myself.”

“Didn’t you just said you think he is pervert?” Eve replies critic, “and that you are not interested in men at all?”

“I did,” Jessica admits nasty “but I like playing with other people’s toys.”

“Ladies, I think you forget the most important part of your marriage planning,” Lisa says friendly, “like what Max feels for example. He was gone for several years. Maybe he met someone who is waiting for him. Or he is just not interested in anyone of you as more than a friend. You should ask him first before you start such a competition.”

“I guess Lisa is right,” Eve agrees a little embarrassed, “we are not the only woman in town. He has basically free choice. We shouldn’t get our hopes too high.”

“Of course, she is right,” Jessica mumbles emotionless, “she is Lisa. She is always right. I have never seen her not being right. I guess we can do nothing but waiting and getting to know him again. And … I’m glad you got a job and can stay here, Nad. If I would miss anybody around, it would be probably you.”

“Aww, thank you, Jess”, Nadja says happy and immediately hugs Jessica tightly, “I would have missed you too.”

“Urg, human affection! I'm getting sick,” Jess complains, but not really fights against it, “you can let me go now, Nad. Please! Guys, help me!”

“Not a chance,” Eve replies and smiles, “hold her tight, Nad! I get my camera.”