The Landlord

four - savior

I was in the middle of sweeping when I felt the starvation in my stomach. I checked my wrist watch, it's already quarter to 3pm and my last meal was still yesterday in Bri's Brews. I peeked at Ms. Weems window from afar and it was closed. I know I admit I hate her but I also didn't see her going out of her office. Would she appreciate if I go get something for her?

"That's a nice idea." I told myself.

I went upstairs to her office. I pressed the door mic.

"Hi, Ms. Weems. It's me again. Aliyah. I am about to get lunch—well, late lunch at the cafeteria a few blocks away and I just thought maybe you would like something that I can get for you?" I cleared my throat, "Ms. Weems?" I simply leaned my head at the door, hoping to hear something. However, even the typing sounds aren't there. I shrugged off and left.

The weather is nice so I enjoyed walking. I reached the cafeteria more quickly than it was yesterday. I remembered that Eli's shift was done and it made me a little upset because I really want to prove her that I'll be back.

I head infront of the cashier and a guy welcomed me.

"Good afternoon! I'm Mateo, your barista this afternoon. Welcome to Bri's brew!" he simply said, "What can I get for you?"

"Uhm..." I searched in the menu since I am really not familiar with their coffee since Ely made me a welcome cup yesterday. "I don't really know...do you have a suggestion? Also in meals please."

He squinted his eyes, "Are you Aya?"

I giggled softly in confusion, "I am."

He started to nod, "Well, Aya, you don't have to worry. Ely told me to pick a food for you if you would come."

"Really?" In awe, I placed my hand on my chest. "You guys are so thoughtful!"

"You can sit now. I'll just serve your food." he instructed. "You can go to TR if you want a more peaceful place to eat." he suggests which made me smile. I was so comfortable in there yesterday so I wouldn't let myself to not experience that comfort again.

"Thank you, Mateo." I was about to leave when he speaks again.

"Don't be startle with my boss' presence." he warned and I just nodded.

I am a little curious why their boss would be here this early. As far as I remember, their boss only arrives at 9pm...or maybe this is another boss? Well, if this is the boss from last night, I would go nuts. I'm still embarrassed that I slept all day sitting on his couch and he didn't even bother to wake me up!

I gently slid the curtain which brought me inside the tranquil room. There was only one person and it's the boss from last night. Since I am still bashful, I managed to sit on the table far from him. The room is small so it's still close even if this is the farthest place I could ever get.

But it's fine. Why would I be conscious? He probably doesn't remember me and most likely, he doesn't care unless I sat at his chair again. I do like sitting in there, though. I hate during this awkward circumstances where my throat itches and I badly want to clear it.

I can't help it so I coughed a little. As soon as I did that, he stood up from his couch. My eyes widened because he was looking at me and his palm are pointing in the couch. Obviously, he was offering his chair.

"Uhh...n-no, thank you. I'm p-perfectly fine." I half lied. It's true that I am okay with where I am sitting right now, but I am not fine because I was intimidated by his presence and actions.

"I'll be leaving. I know you find comfort in here so sit on my chair before someone else does." he said blankly. I can hear a British accent; not too low, not too high. It was just perfectly sultry for me.