At 5:30 on a chilly winter morning, I rush to the bus stop, determined not to be late for work. Losing this job is not an option. About 20 minutes into the ride, the bus halts unexpectedly. We all look around, puzzled.
"Sorry folks, it looks like the bus has some problems," the driver announces.
Oh no, what now? I can't be late. I don't have a phone to call my boss. The driver calls for assistance, but it will take a while. About 30 minutes later, we're back on the road, but I'm already 20 minutes late. Walking the busy street to get to my job, I shiver in the freezing air.
"Elara, you are late," my boss says as I walk in.
"Sorry, sir, there were problems with the bus."
"Don't let it happen again."
"Yes, sir. Sorry."
"We have important people here today."
Lunchtime arrives, and I'm exhausted, but I push through. My coworker, Bella, runs up to me.
"Elara, come, they've arrived."
"Don't frighten me like that, Bella."
"Sorry, Elara. It's okay. Let's get back to work."
"Elara, Bella, stop chatting; they are here."
"Yes, sir."
They look important and intimidating. I approach them, trying to steady my nerves.
"Hello, welcome! My name is Elara, and I will be your waiter. What can I get for you?"
Silence. My heart races as all their eyes are on me. I'm very shy and insecure, which makes me uncomfortable.
"Hello, I'm Blake. May I have your number?"
"Stop scaring the girl, Blake."
"Sorry about my friend."
"It's okay. What can I get for you today? What do you prefer? The cheesecake is our best seller."
"We'll take that, along with three coffees, one Coke, and two iced teas."
"Okay, will that be all for you?"
"Yes, thank you."
Seven minutes later, I bring their order and continue serving the other tables.
"Can I get you anything else?"
"No, thank you, beautiful. Just the bill."
"Okay."
"Wow, Elara, a $200 tip! It's your lucky day," Bella exclaims.
"No, Bella, I can't accept this. Let me go find them."
I rush outside. "Excuse me, sir, you've left too much money."
"It's your tip."
"It's too much, sir."
I try to return the money, but he ignores me and climbs into his car. I throw the money into the passenger seat and run back to the bakery, only for him to follow me back and give me $500 instead.
"Sir, what are you doing?"
"If I give you a tip and you return it, I will add more money. And call me Alexander, beautiful. I will see you soon, Elara."
I stand there awkwardly.
"Ella, I think he likes you," Bella says.
"Please, Bella, no one likes me, remember?"
Time to lock up; I'm ready to go home
YOU ARE READING
Blood and roses
RomanceCan two individuals who are vastly different coexist in a relationship? One is very kind-hearted, while the other is not as much. What will transpire when they cross paths?
