My Last And My Only

Chapter 159: More Than a Summer Job

The afternoon rush had finally settled into a slower pace.

The espresso machine had gone quiet for the first time in nearly an hour, and the line that had stretched almost to the door was now down to just two customers.

Paolo let out a dramatic sigh as he leaned against the counter.

"I missed sitting down."

"You've been sitting down for three days," Angela said from the kitchen doorway.

"I was sick."

"You were recovering."

"I was recovering professionally."

Fea laughed as she wiped the coffee bar.

"I've never heard anyone call staying in bed 'professional.'"

"It takes dedication."

"It takes a fever."

Paolo grinned.

"Details."

Khae shook her head, smiling as she restocked paper cups.

"I leave you three alone for five minutes..."

"You were literally standing right there," Fea said.

"Emotionally, I left."

"Emotionally, you still have to refill the lids."

Khae glanced at the nearly empty container.

"...Fair."

She reached for a new sleeve.

Fea watched her for a second before speaking.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"You've been here every day since we started."

Khae nodded.

"Mhm."

"And you've never once complained."

"I don't think there's anything to complain about."

Paolo looked up.

"You're either very optimistic..."

"...or slightly concerning."

Khae laughed.

"I like being here."

"We noticed."

Fea smiled.

"No, really."

She leaned against the counter.

"I mean... you don't act like someone who's just trying to get through the summer."

Khae looked around the café.

"I wanted to learn."

"You've said that before."

"I meant it."

There was no hesitation in her voice.

"I've always liked cafés."

"The atmosphere."

"The people."

"The little routines."

She smiled as she lined up a stack of takeaway cups.