Zoe’s POV
Monday morning, I was awakened by the noise of my alarm and greeted by the rising sun, which lights beamed past through the window.
My eyes widened when I realized that I had work to do. And I am late!
I dashed inside the bathroom to take a quick shower, and afterward, I wore a simple white shirt and jeans. Since it’s summer, the weather is fine, and it suits my clothing… er, I guess?
I don’t want to wear any sexy stuff like sleeveless or summer dresses. There’s no way. I am more comfortable with shirts and jeans.
When I got out of my room, I smelled freshly baked cookies. I know that Aunt Millie’s cookies smell like that, and we’ve been here in Cali for almost a week now.
Mr. Reynolds, the baker, has excellent baking skills so as cooking and I can sense that he likes Aunt Millie. So as my aunt. It’s just that they’re like teenagers who still feel shy with tints of cowardice.
Even though mom always teased Aunt Millie, the latter still didn’t accept it. And she reminds me of myself.
I shook my head as I went down and smiled at my mom when I saw her in the living room… with Aunt Millie.
“You’re up late this day, sweetheart. Hmm? What happened?” Aunt Millie asked.
I smiled and shook my head as I walked toward the door. “Nothing, Aunt.”
Aunt Millie arches her brow. “Is that so? Anyway, have some breakfast and continue—”
I waved my hand, stopping her. “I’m good, Aunt. Besides, Cindy and I decided to have some coffee and bread, which is fresh from the oven,” I said.
Aunt Millie let out a soft chuckle. “If you say so. Anyway, we have work today, so please do take care of the café, alright?”
I smiled and nodded. “Yes, Aunt. And do take care,” I said and went out of the apartment.
Downstairs I saw Cindy pass through the glass walls, and she was busy talking and getting her customer’s orders.
I pushed the glass door, and the chimes rang. Cindy lifted her head and met my eyes.
“Good morning, Zoe,” she greeted me while I walked toward her.
I smiled and greeted her back.
“I’m sorry. I’m late,” I said as I walked towards the small locker, grabbed my apron, and tied my hair up.
Afterward, I stood beside her and smiled at the customer.
I heard Cindy talk. “It’s fine. Besides, we don’t have many customers today. But…” she glanced at me, “Aunt Millie’s boss has a bulk order,” she added.
I frowned as curiosity struck me. Cindy’s plan was ruined from day one. We didn’t get the opportunity to look after him.
Mom and Aunt Millie… so Mr. Reynolds warned us not to do stupid things, and since conscience attacked us, we didn’t pursue to find it out for the second time.
Like, what’s the big deal?
At first, we followed them but waited for nothing.
“Care to share your thought?” she asked and smirked, making me shake my head.
We keep busy preparing and giving orders to customers. For a few moments, we take a rest and drink a cold caramel float with cookies.
Monday is another tiring day, but we’re delighted that we made all the orders. Since the café has no delivery boy, the clients send someone to pick up their orders.
“A drink for tonight?” Suddenly, Cindy asked me while I was currently wiping the tables, and she was mopping the floor.
I glanced at the wall clock, it was still seven in the evening, and I still got time to grab a drink. However, I am feeling lazy to get out.
I shook my head. “Maybe, next time.”
I saw how Cindy pouted her lips. “Come on, Zoe. My treat.”
I stopped and sighed as I met her eyes. “I’m sorry, Cindy, but I’m not in the mood to grab a drink. If you want, we can go on Friday,” I suggested to ease her tantrum.
She arched her brow. “Please? Just one bottle. Besides, we will not go to that high-end bar. I don’t want to bump with DiMarco,” she said and was pertaining to Calyx.
I let out a soft chuckle. “I know you like the guy. But I swear, I am not in the mood to drink, Cindy.”
“What’s wrong with you on this day? You came late, and it seems you lost your appetite. Then, now, you’re declining me,” she said, making me laugh.
“We can go out some other time, but not today. If you want to, you can go out alone.”
Cindy glared at me. “Hmph. If I know you just don’t want to—”
“Cindy, please. Don’t be stubborn. I swear I am not in the mood to go out,” I said and continued wiping the table.
Before Cindy moved away from me, I heard her deep sigh.
I shook my head.
I am just telling the truth, and I am already sleepy at this moment.
When we were done cleaning the café, Cindy went out by herself, and I laughed when she threw a tantrum at me. But I told her that I would treat her over dinner tomorrow.
When I climbed upstairs, mom and Aunt Millie were not yet home. Maybe the two decided to take their OT. I am happy because I see that mom loves her new work.
The atmosphere of her work is new to her since she used to be an escort and always worked in clubs. And amidst that, we’ve been through. I am proud of her.
She’s a strong woman, and I admire her for that, making me wish that I’m like her.
As the days go by, still, my feelings haven’t changed. It’s my fault anyway. But I only did the thing that was right.
Don Lincoln is a dangerous man, and Helios is already fated to marry his childhood friend. Chloe is a sweet girl, and I know she will take good care of Helios more than I can.
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