Burden

*-chapter twentytwo-*

I've been dealing with stress all week, covering everyone's shifts and taking on additional responsibilities. Despite the fatigue, I've even volunteered to work the early morning shifts, including baking. The need to stay occupied has become a coping mechanism, a way to keep my mind from dwelling on the overwhelming challenges.

Today is the only day the diner isn't running, just the cafe , so it's remarkably quiet. I find solace in the peaceful atmosphere, spending my time making the occasional extra muffins or slices. The rhythmic routine provides a temporary escape from the tumultuous events in my life, offering a brief respite in the calm before the storm resumes.

Jasper walks in, and a genuine smile replaces the gloom on my face. He makes his way to the counter, offering me a slight smile and a nod. Jasper may not be much of a talker, but I've always believed in the saying that actions speak louder than words. His presence alone brings a comforting sense of familiarity.

"One black coffee," he mutters while locking eyes with me. "Oh, no muffin today? I baked them myself," I tease. "Fine, give me a muffin," he responds rolling his eyes. I smile, ringing up his bill as he pays. Taking charge of the coffee brewing today, covering for the absent Alexis, I prepare his drink. Returning to his usual booth, he sips his coffee, and I can't help but appreciate the simple routine that has developed between us.

As my co-worker points to some random tables, she continues, "Hey Mave, can you go clean those tables?" She then playfully whines, "I'm sooo tirrrreeeeeddd," rolling my eyes i give her a  gentle shove. I mockingly respond, "But immm soooo tireeedddd,", even though im  as I grab the cleaning supplies and head over to tidy up the tables. The banter brings a momentary lightness to the weariness that hangs over me.

Walking toward the table I'm intended to clean, I notice Jasper in his booth. I give him a polite nod. "Hey, Jasper," I greet him. He motions his head for me to sit. 

"Again?" I ask, and he simply says, "Sit." With a slight smile, I sit down slowly, meeting his gaze. He's staring at me, his eyes holding a depth of understanding. After a moment, he breaks the silence and asks, "Are you okay?" My face drops just a smidge; this guy is surprisingly observant. "Yeah, of course, I am. Me and Mum are all okay," I reply with a forced smile. He continues to study me, as if he senses there's more beneath the surface. After a brief pause, he encourages me to share, "Well, I've been stressed out lately with bills, rent, and my mum's rent, I guess." He nods in acknowledgment, revealing a hint of empathy, "My mother's in a hospital facility, so that's means there's only one source of income in our lives, well there would be another one if her stupid boyfriend coughed up some money once in awhile."

i look up at jasper, staring intently at him i watch as he says "work for me, as my assistant"

Jasper's unexpected request catches me off guard. "Work for you? As your assistant?" I echo, eyebrows raised in surprise. He nods, his expression serious yet somehow inviting. "i don't need charity, i mean all i needed was to talk about it."

"never said it was charity, i just need a assistant" he just casually shrugs and sips on his coffee.

"Before I agree - although I'm pretty much sold already - I do have a few questions. What time are we talking about? And where exactly do you work? Also, what exactly would I be doing? And why me?"

"seven to three, you'll be the legal secretary which deals with administrative and secretarial support to lawyers and other legal professionals, but mainly helping me."

ignoring the fact he ignored my question, "when do i start?" "monday"

With a sense of determination, I nod in agreement. "Monday it is," I reply, accepting the opportunity with eagerness. The prospect of starting a new role brings a mix of excitement and nerves, but I'm ready to embrace the challenge head-on.

After finalizing the details, we engage in a brief chat, exchanging pleasantries and discussing our respective weekends. Despite the professional nature of our conversation, there's a hint of camaraderie, a sense of mutual understanding that sets a positive tone for our future collaboration. With a newfound sense of purpose, I bid him farewell, eager to dive into my new role come Monday.

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