The Jump

8 Let's Dance

When Saturday finally arrived, Raif had already listened to several earfuls from both Emma and Hector about forgetting about the party. He promised to try his best to get the Senior Chess club out of the cafe early and rush over to at least enjoy a drink and whatever was left over from the cake. Truthfully, he really was upset with himself about forgetting and a part of him felt like he should've just let Lucinda close, but at the same time he wanted her to go have fun. Ever since he hired her she had been working six days a week and putting in extra hours to do his bookkeeping. She deserved a break.

In fact his decision couldn't have been more solidified as he watched her walk into the cafe while pushing her windblown hair out of her face. Her cheeks were pink from the cold and she immediately smiled upon seeing him. He couldn't help but smile back. Seeing her happy, instead of the sad and lost stare she had when he first met her, was better than any buzz from alcohol.

"Tonight's the big party. Got your outfit planned out?" he asked as she walked through the short swing door and behind the counter. Her light scent of vanilla floated up to his nose as she made her way past him and he savored it.

"Sort of," Lucinda replied as she tied her apron on.

"Uh oh, sounds like you're still undecided on what to wear," Raif said as he continued spreading habanero aioli onto a bread roll.

"No, I've got something picked out, it's just... old and I was hoping to find something new, but it's ok." She shrugged. "I'm sure there will be other opportunities for me to get all dolled up for a party."

"Hmm..." Raif hummed as he layered on slices of turkey to the sandwich. "I tell you what, you can get off an hour early and that way you have time to do some last minute shopping before the party."

"What? No." Lucinda shook her head as she began pouring herself a cup of the house coffee.

"Yes," Raif replied.

"No," she repeated. "It really isn't that big of a deal. I'll just make due with the dress I have at home. Plus I already feel guilty that you'll be staying here, closing, and missing your friends party while I'm there having fun."

Raif sliced through the sandwich and then turned to completely face her. "Lucinda, my cafe, my rules. You're getting off an hour early and you're going to go find yourself a new dress for tonight. Ok?"

"Raif. No."

"Yes," he said with a nod and a stern look on his face. "In fact, I think it's time for your bonus."

Lucinda widened her eyes as she pulled her head back, confused. "My what?"

"Your bonus. You're past your probationary period, so that means it's time for your bonus. Which is perfect timing since you're going shopping for a dress." He smiled and turned back to the sandwich, placing it on a plate.

"Raif." She raised her hands, shaking them. "You never said anything to me about a probationary period when you hired me or a bonus, so NO, I'm not accepting it!"

"My cafe. My ru-"

"NO!" she shouted, causing the few customers in the cafe to turn their attention to them. She lowered her voice. "I cannot accept it."