Nah, you prefer skirts. Wearing one gives you a small confidence boost.
Not a bad idea! It’s something you should bring up once you get a co-worker.
>Sing the introduction jingle your boss told you to always say to new customers
Force a smile and try not to cry.
“Hey ho, jump for joy, it’s moccha time, let’s go!
Hey ho, jump for joy, it’s frappé time, let’s go!
Hey ho, jump for joy, it’s latte time, let’s go!
Where do you go when your thirst gets worse?
To the United Roasteries Incorporated of course!
Ask about our daily special!”
You inhale.
“
Promotions valid only at participating locations. May not be combined with any other coupon, discount, or services. One coupon per customer and per return. Other exclusions may apply. Void where prohibited by law.”
I mean, they're just a potential customer so far. They won't be a real one until they buy something, right? This has to happen. You need to make sure they go from potential customer to actual customer.
Uh... do we have any cups?
Bruh, you gotta get his name so you can sloppily scrawl it incorrectly on the cup they're about to order.
“Well? Don’t just stand there, order something!” You say, slightly out of breath, “otherwise you made me go through that stupid jingle for nothing!”
“Sorry Viv,” Lapin’s voice is muffled by his gas mask, “I visit here every afternoon and each time you do the same routine. I thought it gives you happiness.”
“Nah I hate it.” You shift through the salvaged cups as you speak, and pick one of the good ones for him.
“So it’s not a small ritual that gives our friendship its characteristic quirky tone?” He sits down at the counter. He’s clearly in a chatty mood today.
“Making customers feel welcome is mandated by the franchise. I’d perform the song to anyone who visits.”
“I’ve never seen you perform it to anyone else, though.”
“You’re the only one who ever visits.” You whip up a strawberry flavored frappuccino for him, his favorite, and make an attempt to write his name on it with foamed milk. You do not make a very good job of it.
“Well, this place is by my commute. It’s really convenient to pop in when I’m returning home from my rounds.”
“I thought you were drawn in by the quality of our special house blend roast.”
“That too.” He takes a sip of his coffee. “Funny how in hard times it’s the small things that keep us sane.”
“Speaking of which, God I need a break.” You scrunch up your apron and shove it under the counter. “Wanna keep me company?”
“Aren’t you afraid to leave the shop unattended?” He sounds sincere.
You squint at him until he just shrugs, then follows you.
The alley behind the coffee shop is quiet, almost cozy as the afternoon sun warms the brick wall you lean against. It gives a view over the valley and the Eastern Sector, which is being swarmed by some kind of giant bugs. Looks like they are building a hive in one of the old high-rises.
“So, how’s the scavenging?” You light your cigarette, and know from experience that he doesn’t want one.
“Terrible. The company put me on a zero-hour contract, and my sector’s dried up.” He sighs. “If things don’t change I might have to drop out of med school.”
“Dang. That’s rough.” You sound sincere.
You watch the smoke trailing upwards until it evaporates. You like Lapin, but at the same time you don’t like him being more successful than you.
What a selfish thought, you think to yourself, but fail to feel bad about it.
“Hey Lapin?” Your stomach clenches up, and you inhale deeply to steady yourself.
“Yes?”
“Wanna hang out after my shift ends? We live in the same complex, but I’ve never, like, visited your place or anything.”
“I’m sorry but I’m busy tonight. I have to wash my hair.”
“Aw jeeze, you didn’t even bother to come up with a good excuse!” You stare at him incredulously. “A flat out no would’ve been kinder...”
“No, no, I legitimately meant it. I accidentally dipped into a chemical vat, and it’s starting to burn my skin.”
“Oh. Sorry.”
“No prob.”
“...Some other time then?”
“Sure.”
You sit in silence until your break is over.
After Lapin leaves you go to see your boss. You need to discuss your shifts with miss Francine, but when you knock on her door no one replies. Is she even in?
