Our Ice Queen

Introduction: They Never Stood a Chance

(Author's Note!

First, I would love to thank each and every one of you for giving this story a chance.

It is my very first story that I wrote back in COVID '20, and the first one that I published. I WILL finish this story, no matter what.

Some writing techniques/phrases may be chunky, like I said, it is my very first story. I refuse to revamp it, however, because the chunkiness holds a special place in my heart -- just like my first original character, Jalena.

I hope you enjoy this story, the Infamous characters and Jalena just as much as I do. Happy reading mi amóres!)

Seattle 2018

The Roasted Retreat Café, Downtown Seattle

The coffee beans roasting in the brewer, casual conversations from customers and soft jazz music playing from the speakers, nothing could compare to the atmosphere of a coffee shop. The baristas taking orders, wearing black aprons with the company's logo, black pants, formal black shoes and white button-down shirts -- it was a place of comfort.

Of course, you have your busy days. But I don't mind the hustle and bustle of the city.

As I stood at the end of the bar, hands on my hips, a subtle smile pasted on my lips as the stubborn bangs of my platinum curls swayed across my forehead as I had it pulled back into a professional bun.

The black apron slipped around my waist and hips perfectly, the long sleeves from my white buttoned down shirt placed at my elbows, making it easier for me to serve tables.

I recalled the first time I entered this place, looking for a small job to keep me by, as I knew Seattle was my final destination ever since I heard about Augustine.

Flashback, One Year Ago

The bells jingle as I opened the door, entering the café during its more quiet hours. There was an aura that captivated me, that smell of roasted coffee overtaking my senses.

I inhaled through my nose, closing my eyes for a brief moment before I was welcomed in by the barista at the register; a rather handsome dark-haired young man, with light skin and freckles I could make out from a distance.

"Hey, welcome in!" He greets with a friendly tone, "We have a special seasonal drink today, Gingerbread Peppermint Latte with a few pumps of vanilla, along with a few dessert treats.  It's a new recipe, so we'd appreciate you trying it!"

I guessed his age, around 20 years old, his brown eyes filled with innocence and optimism. I've never seen such a bright look in someone's eyes, it reminded me of Don in a way.

I approached him as I checked my surroundings, my curls bouncing from left to right. They had a huge display of their treats; muffins, cupcakes, cookies and more inside the glass containers. It all looked so delicious, I had to control my hunger.

I then finally locked eyes with the young man. "Thanks ..-"

I glance at his name tag, saying his name with a small smile, "Nathan. While that definitely sounds lovely, it also sounds like diabetes in a cup."

The young man's eyes pulsate wide open as his cheeks fluster, a cheeky grin appearing on his face, "U-Uh .. Y-Yeah, it does, doesn't it..?" The other male barista working on some drinks in the back turned to face me, noticing the boy's demeanor.

He snickers to himself, nudging the arm of the boy in front of me.

He clears up his throat, "A-Anyways! What can I get for you, miss?"