A Character's World

A Deadly Conversation

(Monika's POV)

 "Here you go." I served a woman her food. I went back inside to deliver the next order, a small latte and a ham, cheese and tomato sandwich. 

 "This is for the gentleman sitting at table thirteen," my manager said. I scowled when I saw who it was.

 I placed the food on the table. "Can I get you anything else?" 

 "No, you can go away," Thomas Lence grunted.

 I served other tables for a bit, but I eventually had to return to his table.

 "Do you want me to bring out the check?" I asked, picking up his empty place and cup. 

 "Yes," he answered quietly. I left the items in the sink to be washed and brought out his check.

 He took one look at it and paid five dollars. "Sir, that is not enough. It is twelve dollars and fifty cents," I said. 

 "Do I look like I care?" he scoffed at me. I grabbed his shirt and pulled him back, a huge mistake. 

 "Pay the remaining money," I demanded. 

 "I don't have to listen to you," he sneered. He pulled a knife from his pocket and flipped it open. "Let go of me now." 

 I took a step back and raised my hands. Other patrons were starting to stare at the scene.

 "It's seven dollars and fifty cents. It is not worth stabbing me over. Just pay the extra money and leave," I said with my hands in the air. 

 "I will not!" He thrust forward.

 I felt a pain in my gut and looked down to see his knife imbedded in my waist. I staggered back and gripped the knife. Wait, no. Don't pull it out, it's stopping the bleeding, I reminded myself. I needed to remain calm, but I was panicking. I sat down and tried to steady my breathing.

 I saw Thomas run off, but he was not my current concern. "Someone call an ambulance!" someone cried. 

 "And the police!" someone else added.

 I reached into my pocket and took out my phone. I sent Caleb a text. 'Lence stabbed me. Going to hospital.' I hoped his boss would let him off work. I really needed him to keep me calm me right now...

(Caleb's POV)

 I placed the laptop on the counter. "It's all fixed. You had some viruses on it. I would recommend not clicking any suspicious links from now on." The customer paid and took their device. "Another happy customer," I grinned.

 My phone dinged, telling me I had received a text. "Ooo, Monika texted me. I wonder if she sent lots of virtual hugs and kisses." I opened the message and read it. My eyes went wide when I saw the contents.

 'Lence stabbed me. Going to hospital.'

 I quickly messaged her back and got no reply, so I asked my boss if I could take the rest of the day off.

 "It's good with me. You should support your girlfriend. I will want some overtime tomorrow, however," he said. 

 "Yes, sir! Thank you, sir!" I said, rushing away. With his approval, I raced to the hospital.

 I went to the reception desk and asked where Monika was. The receptionist gave me directions and I was off.

 I burst into the doctor's office. "Ah, Caleb. You came." Monika sounded very relieved, despite having a knife stuck in her gut. 

 I took a seat next to her. "Of course I did. I care a lot about you." 

 "Aww, Caleb," Monika blushed. The doctor cleared his throat and we faced him.