Vera & Aust (Dormiveglia)

Episode 5 - Vera

"Aust. Aust." I repeated to myself. "Why you'd rather go by Aust than August is beyond me..." I flipped through the new arrivals I had bought on impulse.

I like the name August. That was what caught my sight first when I glanced at his resume when he handed it over. Then again when I gave it a thorough look. August is such a beautiful name to be hidden behind 'Aust'. Though I must admit, he does look like an Aust rather than an August.

I shook my head to clear it.

Focusing on the books was a better way to be productive. Scanning the senders, I noticed one that I hadn't ordered.

It was a smaller box than the rest.

I couldn't remember where I'd seen the name before, but upon opening it, I blushed.

"My own book and I couldn't remember it." I laughed.

I write. It's my actual profession outside of being a business owner. I was a Creative Writing and Literature major before I came to own the library cafe. All the regulars knew this, so I would often order a few copies of my work to sell. They were the only books I sold at the cafe.

It sounds a bit narcissistic, but I just didn't want to go through selling and licensing permits. At least with my work, I already had the necessary paperwork.

Preparing them to be tagged, I got up and headed towards the counter where I found Old Man Obed and Lem engrossed in a conversation with my new hire, August. I mean, Aust.

"Don't worry!" I chimed in as I got myself caught up. "When it's not so busy, I can teach you how to organize the books."

I watched as he flexed his muscles. I wondered for a moment what his major was. Followed by furrowing my brows as I questioned in my head if he even was interested in cataloging. Maybe I shouldn't force him to do this job. Should I get another part-timer? I am due to write another novel.

"Thank you."

I smiled widely.

I guess, I'll trust him.