Summary

David and Ruby's coffee date reveals their shared interests and leads to an unexpected turn when David falls ill, prompting Ruby to invite him to her home, hinting at a hidden agenda related to a job.

Abstract

In "Ruby's Fairy Tales — David — Part 2," David and Ruby discover commonalities during a coffee date at Coffee Craft, which deepens their connection. As they share a moment over cappuccinos, Ruby subtly manages a headache with a pill from an aspirin bottle. The evening takes a twist when David becomes unwell after their date, and Ruby, contrary to her usual habits, offers him a place to rest on her couch. The narrative suggests an ulterior motive behind Ruby's actions, as she sends a photo of the incapacitated David to an unknown party, indicating the completion of a job after the money is wired. The story is a modern retelling of "Little Red Riding Hood," with elements of deception and intrigue, leaving readers with a cliffhanger as Ruby drives David into the night.

Opinions

The author presents Ruby as a complex character with potential ulterior motives, diverging from the traditional damsel in distress trope.
David's sudden illness after the coffee date introduces an element of suspense, suggesting that there may be more to the story than a simple romantic encounter.
The story is intentionally crafted to deceive, as indicated by the author's note, which defines a fairy tale as a fabricated story meant to deceive, hinting that the narrative should not be taken at face value.
The author's reference to Zane Dickens' story challenge implies that the tale is part of a larger collection of stories designed to intrigue and surprise readers.
The use of a modern setting and technology, such as sending a photo via email, adds a contemporary twist to the classic fairy tale structure.

Fiction series|Fantasy|Suspense

Ruby’s Fairy Tales — David — Part 2

25 of 💯 Tale #2 — The coffee date

Previously on Ruby’s Fairy Tales — David — Part 1

The jaguar parked in the shadows near the Coffee Craft, Ruby sat on a low back stool, long legs crossed with her foot bouncing slightly when David entered. He saw her through the large windows, her natural beauty illuminated by the soft glow of the restaurant while he straightened his tie.

They ordered their caffeinated drinks then settled into comfy, beige armchairs in the corner of the aged brick building. Every time either of them shared something, David was stunned they had it in common.

“Do you want to try my cappuccino?”

When he nodded and had taken a sip, he looked at her, eyes wide. “This is really good! Why have I never tried this?!”

He offered his cup and Ruby accepted. Taking a small pill from an aspirin bottle in her purse, she popped it in her mouth before taking a sip. “Sorry, headache from all the buzz at the casino. It is a bit strong but good!”

With each passing moment and shared passion, he leaned into her, drawn like a moth to a flame. He was intoxicated by her simple beauty, her luscious lips smiling at him, by her melodious laughter.

“I’d like to see you again Ruby.”

She smiled and nodded in agreement as they stood to leave, empty cups forgotten. They yawned at the same time, smiling at each other, and continued visiting on the ornamental tree-lined sidewalk for several more minutes.

Reluctant to part ways, David gently kissed her hand. Taking a step back, he turned to walk to his car. Casting another glance over his shoulder at the alluring woman waving goodbye, her curls and red dress gently ruffled by the breeze, his hand fumbled for the light post as his steps wobbled.

“David, are you alright?” Ruby hurried to his side, heels clicking on the sidewalk.

“I guess the coffee didn’t agree with me.” Hand cradling his left temple, he tousled the meticulously styled hair as his fingers raked through the sandy blond strands. “I’ll be fine. I just need some rest.” Releasing the light post, David stumbled more before leaning against the hood of his car.

“David, I can’t just leave you like this.” Her hand was warm on his arm through the black dress shirt. Looking around in the darkness, then back at David, “I am not in the habit of inviting men home but I think you should come with me. You can sleep this off on my couch.”

David conceded and allowed her to escort him, their arms around each other, to her car. After helping him inside, she slid behind the wheel. Handing him a bottle of water, “Do you think water would help?” He opened the bottle and drank deeply as she started the car, flooding them with dramatic classical music. He relaxed in the seat, mumbling something about loving classical music, head tilted towards her with his baby blue eyes closed.

Ruby picked up her phone and took a picture of David’s peaceful face. Opening her business email, she sent the photo with a short message.

Target acquired. After the money is wired, the job will be finished.

“You didn’t gamble on this, did you, David?” With that, she backed into the street and drove into the night.

David — Part 1 <-| Table of contents | -> David — Part 3

This is my twist on Little Red Riding Hood. Why do I call this Ruby’s Fairy Tales? Because the definition of a fairy tale is a fabricated story, especially one intended to deceive. Enjoy the ride!!

Sweet Chaos — Tickling your senses through fiction writing while shocking you with the outcome! Nothing is as it seems! Ready to read every addicting story leaving you on the edge of your seat? Joining through my link gives me a smidge extra at no cost to you, and a treat for my dog!

Inspired by Zane Dickens’💯 Story Challenge