So, I was working at the bar the other night, just another shift, you know? The usual crowd came in, some regulars, some new faces, and it was busy as always. But there was one guy who stood out. He didn’t try to make a seen or flirt like the usual group of guys that wander in. He just walked in, ordered his whiskey, and quietly took a seat at the bar.

I’ve been bartending for a while now, so I’m used to people coming and going, making small talk, and trying to get my attention. But something about this guy felt different. Every time I’d glance over, he was looking at his drink, but his eyes would catch mine for a second. Not in a creepy way, just... I don’t know, like he was paying attention.

Anyway, I wasn’t really sure what to make of it, but I went over to check on him. He asked if I was having a good night—nothing too out of the ordinary, but it was the way he said it. He wasn’t rushing me to serve him faster or trying to be funny. We just started talking.

It didn’t feel like small talk, though. We started chatting about the usual things—my job, balancing school and work, how chaotic my schedule is. And then out of nowhere, I ended up telling him how tough it is to really connect with people. It’s like when you’re constantly meeting people but never actually get the chance to talk to someone and really see them.

He listened. Actually listened. Most people don’t do that, so I didn’t expect it to feel so easy. By the time my shift ended, I was about to head out, but he asked me if I wanted to grab a drink with him after work. I wasn’t sure at first, but I thought, why not?

We ended up just talking more at this little dive bar down the street, nothing crazy. It wasn’t some wild night or anything, just a nice, chill conversation. And honestly, it was the most real interaction I’ve had in a while.