The early morning rush had just passed, the stream of natives and tourists stopping on their way for an early morning pick me up, or a treat for later to motivate them through their day, giving way to just a few lingering customers, finishing the last dredges of their lattes or crumbs of their donuts. Even they eventually disappeared out the front door, leaving Sadie to the small tasks of the morning. Though her recent promotion to assistant manager gave her larger responsibilities than making coffees or wiping off tables, she’d never minded the menial work, finding that it not only passed the time, but further added to the sense of pride she felt in being part of the team there.
Wiping down tables had been exactly what she was doing when the door opened, catching sight of the figure from the corner of her eye as he made his way to the display case. “I can be with you in just a sec.” Sadie figured she had a moment from the way they seemed to be surveying their options, but she was quick to finish, disappearing into the back to dispose of the rag and to wash her hands. When she reappeared, the customer still hadn’t moved from their spot, hunched over the different cupcakes. She couldn’t help but grin, coming to stand behind the case and get a better look at just who she was serving.
“The choices are overwhelming, huh? I’d definitely recommend--” But when their face lifted, and Sadie’s eyes met the familiar pair of blues staring back at her, the words were cut off from her lips, her throat suddenly tightening. It was almost humorous, the way she couldn’t even say she was surprised, despite her reaction. All she could do for the moment was stare at the other ghost from her past, until she forced herself to blink and snap herself out of it. Her head shook, throat clearing nervously before finishing, “the, uh, chocolate coconut. It’s been popular this morning.”
@ofparadice