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“You did?”
He nods.
“Oh.” I scan the tables—not missing Ben’s scowl as he and his crew rise to leave—and change the subject. “Who needs what?”
Oliver rattles off what tables need attention and we get to work. Deidra arrives just before seven, says her morning hellos, then goes into the office for fifteen minutes as per usual. Tossing on an apron, she alternates between the kitchen and dining room to lighten the load.
When the first rush tapers off, I ask to speak with her. She directs me to the office and I relay the CliffsNotes version of what’s happening. I rarely ask for extra time off and feel guilty the second I voice the request. But Deidra assuages my concern with an unexpected hug.
“Take the week, honey.” She releases me and inches back, holding me at arm’s length. “We’ll manage here. Kenzie may gripe when I ask, but she’ll thank you for the tips later.”
“Are you sure? I don’t want to put anyone out.”
“Although it’s not, think of it as a vacation.” She gives my arms a squeeze, then lets go. Opening the office door, she gestures for me to exit then follows in my wake. “We all need extra time away.” We wander through the kitchen, enter the dining room, then pause behind the service counter. “Work has its upside, but so does time for yourself. Taking care of yourself is more important than taking orders and serving breakfast.”
“But—”
“But nothing.” She digs the pad of paper and pen out of her apron. “We aren’t robots, honey. We aren’t meant to work every minute of every hour of every day. That we think otherwise is unfortunate.”
Before I argue further, she dashes off and sidles up to a table. With her best smile in place, she scribbles their order on the pad and winks before walking off.
Pulling my phone from my back pocket, I open the group chat with Skylar, Delilah, and Oliver. My fingers fly over the keys, filling them in on the latest news.
Admirer left a gift and note on the porch. Travis said the note’s worse than the others. Gift was lingerie ?? Travis suggested we get out of town. Don’t have details yet, but Ben wants to tag along.
I pocket my phone and distract myself by wiping down tables and refilling coffee mugs. A few of the regulars stop me as I pass and update me on their own lives. It irks me to fake interest, but I simply can’t focus enough to care right now.
Tossing the cleaning rag in the bleach water, I move to the empty end of the counter and take out my phone.
Ollie
Yeah, I bet Ben wants to come ??
Sky
How very 13 of you Ollie ??
Sky
Keep us posted. Sorry you’re dealing with this bullshit. Love you!!!!!
Dee Dee
Really, Ollie? FFS
Dee Dee
Need me to watch Trixie?
I react to Oliver with a thumbs down, then type a response.
Any other time, I’d laugh Ollie. Travis said to bring Trixie. I’ll let you know if that changes.
Love you ??
Buzz, buzz, buzz.
Sky
