My Last And My Only

Chapter 149: A New Face at Mezzo

The lunch rush had finally settled.

The steady hum of conversations remained, but the long line that had stretched almost to the entrance an hour ago had disappeared.

Khae wiped the counter with a clean cloth before glancing at the order monitor.

"Only three drinks," she said.

Lindtsey looked over from the pastry display.

"Enjoy it while it lasts."

"Why?"

"It'll pick up again in about twenty minutes."

Khae laughed.

"You're really starting to predict the café."

Lindtsey nudged her shoulder.

"You'll start predicting it too."

Before Khae could answer, the office door opened.

Lindtsey's grandfather stepped out carrying a brown folder.

"Girls."

Both of them straightened instinctively.

"'Lo?"

"I need a few minutes."

He motioned toward one of the empty tables.

When they sat down, he rested the folder on the table and smiled kindly.

"First of all..."

He looked at Khae.

"You're doing very well."

Khae blinked.

"Thank you."

"I've been watching."

"You learn quickly."

Khae smiled shyly.

"I'm still learning a lot."

"And that's exactly why you'll keep improving."

He nodded approvingly before turning to Lindtsey.

"You've done a good job teaching her."

Lindtsey grinned.

"I had an excellent student."

Khae laughed.

"I'm sitting right here."

"I know."

The older man chuckled before opening the folder.

"I also have an update."

His tone became more practical.

"You remember Thea?"

"The crew member on leave?" Lindtsey asked.

He nodded.

"She called this morning."

Khae immediately listened more closely.

"Unfortunately..."

He paused.

"She won't be coming back."

Lindtsey's smile softened.

"Oh..."

"It's a family matter."

"She needs to stay in the province indefinitely."