The Faded Rose

Prologue

#The media above is how I imagine Hayley's restaurant. The picture does not belong to me. The credit goes to the original owner.

Hayley

Jade burst into the kitchen, her voice filled with urgency. "I need your help," she cried out, weariness etched on her face. Her eyebrows furrowed, forming deep lines on her forehead, as she continued, "There's this customer demanding a dish we don't even make." Resting her hands on her hips, her lips pursed in frustration, "She's refusing to consider anything else and is being a real pain in the ass. I'm at a loss for what to do," Jade exclaimed, pinching her nose in exasperation.

This is the downside of being in the restaurant business. Certain customers seem to believe that their wealth grants them the authority to mistreat our hardworking servers. They arrogantly look down upon those who don't fit into their privileged bubble, trampling over the less fortunate without a shred of empathy or concern. It's disheartening to witness such disregard for basic human decency.

Sighing. "I'll handle it. Which table is she at?" I ask Jade as I remove my apron.

"Table Five," she sighs as she opens the kitchen door.

With no further delay, I stride purposefully ahead, Jade keeping pace just behind me. Navigating through the bustling restaurant, skillfully weaving around busy waiters scurrying between tables, we swiftly navigate towards our destination—table five.

Weekends are the days when the restaurant is packed with people, it is the most tiring day of the week however it does give me a sense of accomplishment. A satisfaction like no other. Nevertheless, incidents like the one unfolding manage to cast a shadow over my mood, and today proves no exception.

As we approach the table, my gaze lands upon none other than Lisa Hadley. It's hard to forget her face, considering not long ago had she started working in movies and dramas before she rose to stardom. It's truly commendable how she made a name for herself amidst the fierce competition. But like most other actresses, she is known to be arrogant and downright rude, at least according to the tabloids.

I witness her piercing voice reverberating through the room as she shouts at one of the servers, who continues to apologize dutifully despite bearing no fault.

This isn't going to be easy. I sigh again.

Customers at the neighboring tables sneak glances in her direction, some annoyed and some awestruck with their mouth hanging open, and eyes about to pop out of their socket. I doubt they even realize that. Under different circumstances, I might have found their expressions amusing enough to burst into laughter. However, today is not one of those days. With a heavy sigh, I gather my resolve and stride towards the drama queen, wearing my best poker face to conceal any trace of frustration or annoyance.

She is wearing an alluring red dress adorned with shimmering sequins all over that cling to her like a second skin. Her blonde tresses cascade gracefully complimenting her diamond face. She is like one of those women who make heads turn wherever they go. Now I can see why men want to date her and how she leaves a long list of heartbreaks behind her. She is really beautiful. 

Jade swiftly takes a decisive step forward, interjecting into Ms. Hadley's fiery altercation. Quickly introducing me, in case she starts her screaming match again. "Allow me to introduce Hayley Preston, the esteemed owner of this establishment."

Ms. Hadley's gaze moves from my head to my feet, appraising me with a mixture of disdain and indifference. With a dismissive scoff, she waves her hand dismissively, "Whatever," she retorts, a touch of arrogance lacing her voice.

I resist the urge to roll my eyes at her childish antics. Is she what? Five? 

Irrespective of her demeanor, I remind myself that she remains a valued customer within my restaurant. Each and every patron holds significance, and their satisfaction is my utmost priority and with that thought in my mind, a warm smile graces my lips as I extend a polite greeting. "Good evening, Ma'am! Please accept my sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused. How may I be of assistance to you?" I inquire, my tone reflecting genuine concern and a commitment to resolving the situation at hand.