A New Chapter (Solo)

The coffee shop hadn’t changed in the week he was gone; it was a revelation that both comforted and depressed Zaid. Layne managed to keep up with all the cooking and handled the front of house business. She did it so well, in fact, that when he arrived, there were only a few pastries to bake.

As he was finishing his work for the day, there came the phrase he never wanted to hear: meet me in the office. His whole body felt numb as he did as he was told, dreading what was to come.

“Don’t look so terrified, your making me nervous,” Layne commented, holding up her hands in defense. Zaid tried to get his face to relax but it was a losing battle. His hat hid his ears so he couldn't get them to stand regardless.

Layne sighed and just gestured for him to sit. The rabbit mutant barely touched the chair with all the nervous energy trying to keep him on his feet.

“I have good news for you, really. It may not feel like it at first, but when you asked about taking over my apartment, I took it as a good sign.

“I have a friend looking for a new line cook. The pay is more than we can offer, and I recommended you. I know, you have trouble with transitions like this, but you are a quick learner and you’ve always loved cooking, Zaid. I want you to take the chance and move beyond just being a coffee grunt here.”

Zaid swallowed, words finally coming from where his lungs had trapped them and escaping his mouth. ”A line cook? Do you really think I’m qualified for that, Layne?”

She shot him a stubborn glare, “You’re more than qualified. This is a friend of mine and he knows you need a little help but he is willing to train you. I can handle the shop on my own, it's the slow season is starting anyway. Plus, the restaurant is close to my old apartment. You and your boyfriend can move in, you can start the new job, and it’ll be a fresh start. You have so much potential, Zaid, and damn if I’m not going to push you toward a better opportunity.”

He felt stunned, looking down at his hands for a moment before nodding, trying to keep his eyes from watering. ”I just...this has been like a second home. I’m going to miss you.”

She surprised him by walking over and hugging him, laughing against his beanie. “Oh you precious cinnamon roll! It’s not like you’ll never see me. Come by for tea anytime. And bring Jude, okay! Just, try your best. Your an adult now and it’s time to start looking toward a future.” She pulled back and flicked him on the nose. Zaid made a face, and then accepted the papers she handed him.

“Be there Monday. Make me proud.”

He could only nod and square his shoulders. It was the start of a new chapter in life.