A Falcon's Light

Chapter 1

Tomorrow was going to be an amazing day. The grand opening of something I had been waiting for months. I woke up feeling super energized but groaned at the amber-colored numbers on my bedside clock. I had fifteen minutes to get ready and be at work. I quickly ran a brush through the tangle of my golden hair, threw on a clean set of clothes, and put my comfy sneakers on all while brushing my teeth. I grabbed my phone, wallet, and bag before jogging out the door. I threw on my helmet and unlocked my bike lock before throwing the cable into my backpack and hightailing it out of the apartment complex. I was grateful that my job wasn't far, a five-minute bike ride if I pedaled fast enough.

Finally, I spotted the blue roof of my workplace and sighed. I quickly locked up my red bicycle at the back of the building and entered through the back door. One of my coworkers was in the changing room putting on her nice red uniform.

"Cutting it close today, aren't ya Alice?" Her bright red hair was pulled into a high ponytail, and as usual, her makeup was flawless. I've always been glad I'm not a waitress, mainly since I feel horribly ugly in her presence.

"Oh hush! I'm on time, that's all that matters, Jess." I threw my white coat on and pulled my long hair into an ugly little bun.

"Let me guess. Freaking out about that exhibit opening up tomorrow?" She shook her head scoffing playfully, her perfectly manicured hand on her hip.

"Yeah, I seriously can't wait, I bought my ticket the other day. Do you know how exciting it is?" I almost screeched, totally fangirling. Jessica only rolled her eyes before coming over to me and ripping my hair out of my bun. I freaked out a little before realizing she was fixing it.

"Before you head out this weekend, come over to my place first, so I can teach you how to do your hair, at the very least." I smiled at her, I was so glad to have such a good friend. I may feel fat and ugly compared to her, but she's never been mean to me, actually going so far as to help me pick out clothes for dates and parties. I was grateful to her.

"Fine. Thanks, Jess, appreciate it." We both left the room together but headed to different parts of the restaurant. She waltzed to the front of the restaurant and I secluded myself to the kitchens. Two other chefs were already here preparing things. They both smiled and bid me morning, which I returned. Not even ten minutes after I entered, the first ticket was at the window. The first of many.

I've always loved to cook, and my dream was to open my own restaurant. I went to culinary school and got my degree in the culinary arts, but I didn't have enough experience for the job I wanted so I ended up as the head chef at this little chain restaurant, which specializes in breakfast foods. I've been working here for four years, and have really come to enjoy my co-workers. However I've always wanted more, but who doesn't I suppose.

Many people don't realize how busy a chef is no matter the kitchen. Always on our feet in a hot room, making food as fast as possible, but keeping the food in good quality, it can be a little stressful for new chefs, but I enjoy it. Jess always thought I was crazy because of it.

"Hey Alice, I need you upfront, it's a Karen." Jess grumbles as she enters the kitchen. We both rolled our eyes at the thought. A 'Karen' is a term we use to describe women who find a problem with everything, demeaning staff and throwing a fit, all the while asking for a manager. We all hate Karens. Begrudgingly I followed my friend out into the main dining room and put on a fake smile. The 'Karen' sat at the back with the traditional Karen haircut and a snobby look on her face.

Jess stood at my side as I greeted the woman. "May I help you, Ma'am?" The woman sneered at me, eyeing me up and down disgusting, before returning her gaze to Jessica.