Finding Us (Interracial Romance)

A Day At Smooth Brew

Cecilia

9:00 AM – Smooth Brew, 32 Elmwood Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

The smell of freshly brewed coffee hits my nose the second I step inside Smooth Brew, just like it does every morning. The familiar sound of the door chime rings out, and I smile, taking in the view. It's strange to think I've been working here for three years as singing was a hobby when I thought my music career wouldn't take off, I would work at Smooth Brew. Working here doubles my salary I make as a singer. The warm yellow walls, the mismatched wooden chairs, and the art on the walls — all of it feels like home. The whole place has a vintage charm that makes you want to stay and sip your latte a little longer.

I drop my bag behind the counter and greet my co-workers.

"Morning, Cece!" Savannah calls out, pouring a fresh batch of oat milk into a silver jug. Her high ponytail bounces as she glides around the coffee station.

"Morning, Sav!" I say, tying on my apron. "What's today's special?"

"Pumpkin spice everything," she laughs. "You know how it is once November hits. They can't get enough of it."

"You're not wrong," I chuckle, grabbing a towel to wipe down the counters. "I swear, people lose their minds the second they see a pumpkin."

"I mean, it is L.A.," Savannah shrugs with a smirk. "We love a trend."

I join her behind the espresso machine just as the door chime rings again, signaling our first rush of customers. The crowd is typical — students with backpacks, young professionals in crisp button-downs, and the occasional retired local who orders the same black coffee every morning.

The rhythm of the cafe takes over, and I fall into it like I always do. Pour, steam, hand over. Smile, greet, repeat. The hours blur together in a comforting routine. I guess that's one of the reasons I've stayed here so long — the steady hum of Smooth Brew is like a heartbeat I can count on.

Around noon, the line is out the door, and the place is buzzing. My boss, Derrick, comes over with a grin. "Cece, can I borrow you for a sec?"

"Sure, what's up?" I say, following him toward the back. He leads me to the small stage we have set up for open mic nights and the occasional impromptu performance.

Derrick claps his hands together and a hush falls over the cafe. "Hey, everyone! Can I get your attention?" His deep voice booms over the chatter, and I feel a sudden knot of nerves in my stomach.

"Uh oh," I mutter under my breath. I don't like being the center of attention unless I'm singing.

Derrick gestures to me with a proud smile. "As most of you know, our very own Cecilia Evans has been with Smooth Brew for three years. Not only is she an incredible barista, but she's also a ridiculously talented singer-songwriter. And... her EP, Flowers was just nominated for a Grammy!"

The cafe erupts in applause and I can feel my face getting hot.

"Okay, okay, that's enough," I laugh, waving my hands to calm the crowd. "Y'all are gonna make me blush."

"Come on, Cece!" Savannah shouts from the back. "You gotta sing something!"

I look over at Derrick, who's grinning ear to ear. "No pressure, but... maybe a little something from Flowers?"

The truth is, I love singing. It's been my passion since I was little and releasing my EP was a dream come true. But I'm still getting used to the idea of people knowing my music, let alone being excited about it. I mean, a Grammy nomination? I'm still wrapping my head around that one.