Playing around

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Sweet Dilemmas

"Helloooo, welcome to Emily's Sweet Sugar Bakery, or EssB for short!" I exclaim, beaming with pride. "I'm Emily, but my friends call me Em. What can I get started for you today, Miss Rosa?"

Miss Rosa, a weekly regular, smiles warmly, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "Hi, Emily dear. I'm looking for something nice and refreshing today, maybe something to munch on my way to church."

I nod enthusiastically, knowing Miss Rosa's preferences. "Well, lucky for you, we have a beautiful Huckleberry sandwich this month. It's a delicate brown sugar, honey ham sandwich with sharp cheddar cheese and our famous homemade Huckleberry jam on buttered honey bread. We can grill it for you or serve it cold, whichever you prefer."

Miss Rosa's eyes light up. "Oh, yes, dear, that sounds yummy! I'll take two of those, please."

As I prepare her order, Miss Rosa notices the new decorations in the bakery. "Oh, Emily, your bakery looks lovely today! You always make it feel so cozy and inviting."

I blush, feeling grateful for her kind words. "Thank you, Miss Rosa. I try my best to make it feel like a warm hug for everyone who comes in."

Miss Rosa smiles, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "You certainly do, dear. You have a gift for making people feel welcome."

As I hand Miss Rosa her order, she reaches for her purse to pay.
her expression falters slightly, As she looks at me with worry in her eyes. "Oh dear, I'm so sorry...I don't have my wallet with me."

As I look in the register I give out a small sigh My heart goes out to her, and I quickly reassure her,

"It's okay, Miss Rosa.
I understand. It's not a big deal.
I want you to enjoy your treats."

Miss Rosa looks relieved but still concerned. "Oh, Emily, I don't want to be a burden. I'll come back and pay you tomorrow, I promise."
Miss Rosa says her hands are shaking slightly eyes welling up with tears.

I smile and gently rub her hands, trying to comfort her. "Ms Rosa, it's really okay. I know you'd do the same for me if I were in your shoes. Just enjoy your treats and don't worry about it, okay?"

Miss Rosa's face lights up with gratitude, and she gives me a firm hug. "Thank you, dear. You're a sweet child."

As I watch Ms Rosa walk out of the door happily humming her favorite tunes I can't help but smile myself she is like an elderly grandma in my eyes and as long as she's happy it's a good day.