Chapter 65

• THE OPENING
• "Welcome to Maya's coffee shop. Free treat. Enjoy," I recite the familiar greeting with a practiced smile, placing yet another perfectly arranged cup of steaming coffee and a plate of freshly baked cookies before the waiting customer. The satisfaction in their eyes as they receive their order is a small reward for the effort put into each creation.
• "Thank you so much, miss," the customer responds warmly, their gratitude echoing in the air as I turn away, my mind already moving on to the next task at hand. With purposeful strides, I make my way back to the counter, the steady rhythm of the day's activities propelling me forward.