Chapter 45 Friendship Ties

As Martha walked away with his cup of coffee, Owen turned to face Eleanor. "A takeaway pack? You a regular here?" he asked, trying to sound nonchalant. "Yes, sir. What did you think?" "That's strange. I've never seen you around here, and I come here almost every day." He was beginning to sound like a stalker, but he couldn't help it. "Well, maybe because you bury yourself in your coffee, don't you?" Owen's face grew even hotter, but he couldn't help smiling. His expression turned to that of embarrassment. From embarrassment, it turned to sheepishness. "A little," he said in a whisper. "Maybe a little," he repeated, hoping he was loud enough this time. Eleanor's smile grew wider, and she leaned back in her chair, looking pleased with herself. "I thought so. I do not blame or mock you, Owen. I'm always on my laptop, too, anytime I'm here. It affords me time to create my schedule or arrange it before any class or major event of the day." As they talked, Owen found himself openin