"Rush's friend?"
"Yeah."
"Good luck."
"Why would I need luck?"
"Because that girl wants him, and you know it."
I almost smile. "I know."
"And you're going anyway?"
"Yeah. I'm not scared of her."
"You're braver than me."
Ciara's already there when I arrive. She's at a corner table with two coffees.
"Hey," she says with a bright smile. "I got you a latte. Hope that's okay."
"Thanks."
I sit down and take a sip. It's good.
"So," she says. "How are you doing? With everything?"
"Good."
"Yeah? Things are going well with Rush?"
"Yeah, they are."
"That's great. I'm so happy for you guys." She pauses. "I just wanted to check in—you know, make sure you're okay."
"Why wouldn't I be okay?"
"Oh, no reason. It's just Rush can be a lot sometimes. Intense, moody, hard to read."
"I can handle intense."
"Of course you can." She smiles but it doesn't reach her eyes. "I just mean, he's not really the relationship type. At least not from what I've seen."
"What have you seen?"
"Oh, you know, just that he keeps people at arm's length. He's been here two years and I don't think I've ever seen him get serious with anyone."
"Until now."
"Right, until now." She takes a sip of her coffee. "I'm just saying, don't be surprised if he pulls back. That's kind of his pattern."
The comment is subtle but pointed. It implies I'm temporary, that this won't last.
"Thanks for the warning," I say flatly.
"It's not a warning, just friendly advice. I care about Rush and I'd hate to see either of you get hurt."
"I appreciate your concern, but we're fine."