Loyalty and Lies

Better than most

Lea's pov:

The line at the café stretched out the door, a snake of restless bodies shifting on tired feet. I sighed, tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear as I glanced at my watch for the third time. The rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans teased my senses, a small comfort amidst my impatience. There was nothing better than hot coffee in the morning before my daily problems return, if it weren't for the eternal waiting.

In front of me, a young man tapped his foot to an invisible beat, earbuds in and head bobbing slightly. Behind me, a couple whispered in hushed tones, their conversation a soft murmur that I couldn't quite decipher. The barista, a blur of motion, called out orders in rapid succession, her hands moving with practiced efficiency.

I shifted my weight from one foot to the other, the cool morning air seeping through my thin jacket. I glanced at the menu board, mentally debating whether to stick with my usual order or try something new.

As the line inched forward, I pulled out my phone, checking if someone especially Addie messaged me. Nothing. That was to be expected, after all she thinks I'm at work, having no idea that I took the day off. My thoughts drifted to our current situation, the increased rent, Adams crazy threat two days ago and my own problem, I needed to clarify today.  Addie didn't know about it, not because I didn't trust her but because I didn't want to burden her with it, not back then and certainly not now. Besides, it was better for Addie that she didn't know about it. I was snapped back to reality by the sound of my name.

"Lea? Lea, your turn," the barista called, her voice cutting through the background noise. She had light blond hair that cascaded softly over her shoulders, she just wore a hint of makeup on her flawless skin and her big hazel eyes stared back at me, waiting for my anwser. I came here often and of course we got into conversation, so I know that she is 19 and has just started studying english literature, but unfortunately I have forgotten where. At least someone who makes something of his life.

I stepped forward, offering a tired but genuine smile. "Hi Jules, a medium cappuccino to go, please."

Jules nodded, punching in the order. "That'll be $4.75, please."

I handed her the money and watched as she prepared my cappuccino."How are you doing? Everthing okay?"

"Sure, and with you and your studies?" I lied shamlessly in her face, after all, not every stranger needed to know what was going on with us.

"It's exhausting, better than this though. Here's your cappuccino." She handed me my drink with a friendly smile.

I took the cappuccino and returned her smile. "Thanks, Jules. Take care."

I walked out of the cafè, the warmth of the cup seeping into my hands. As I stepped into the street, the cool breeze hit my face, although it was already summer, it was still fresh in the morning.

The truth was, my mom, whom I hadn't seen in years, called me yesterday, asking or more demanding for my immediate help with something. After the call, I was sure of two things. First, there was no way I could deny her request. Second, whatever it was that she needed my help with, the consequences would most likely be catastrophic. After all, there was a reason we didn't see each other.

And yet here I was, on the way to my mom's house, after lying to Addie, trying to keep calm.
There was no way I could have done that without my morning coffee.

As I rounded a corner, still lost in my thoughts, I didn't see the man until it was too late. We collided, and my cappuccino spilled all over his suit.

"Oh no, I am so sorry!" I exclaimed, horrified at the mess I'd made.

The man stepped back, clearly taken aback by the sudden coffee bath. He looked down at his ruined suit and then up at me, his expression a mix of surprise and annoyance.