Chapter 13

Hailey's POV

As I left Connor's villa, I felt an unexpected sense of relief, despite the uncertainty ahead.

With my luggage in tow, I passed through the bustling streets of Los Angeles. Finally, I arrived at a Twilight Café.

As I pushed open the door, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of coffee and the cozy ambiance.

I inhaled deeply, anticipating the fresh start of my life.

"Hi, you're here early." A gentle male voice interrupted my thoughts.

Looking up, I saw the café owner, Vernon Rice, approaching me with a warm smile.

Fine lines crimped around his eyes as he smiled and reached out a friendly hand to me, saying, "I thought you'd come tomorrow."

"I don't have much to pack, so it took me little time," I replied, feeling the rough marks of hard work on his hand as I shook it.

Noticing my luggage, Vernon remarked, "Seems you're preparing to settle in here?"

"Yes, sir," I replied somewhat sheepishly, "I hope I won't be a bother."

"Not at all. I have a small room here, originally intended for the warehouse keeper, but the position is still vacant," Vernon said, picking up my luggage. "Let me show you."

We walked through the coffee shop and reached the warehouse, which was filled with coffee beans and supplies. In a corner, a small room awaited, furnished with a bed, a table, and a chair.

"It may be simple, but clean. Make yourself at home," he said, setting down my luggage.

Looking around, a warm feeling surged in my heart. I said, "Thank you, Mr. Rice."

"Just call me Vernon," he smiled, "You shall tidy up first. I'll go prepare for my café."

I nodded, and as he left, I set about tidying up the room.

I made the bed, arranged my clothes in the simple wardrobe, and placed my belongings on the table.

Despite its modest size, the room felt cozy to me.

This was the home I had found for myself, and I found my peace living in it.

Could this be more challenging than life in the mountains? I doubted it.

After finishing my arrangements, I stepped out of the room and began my new job.

My duties included welcoming guests, handling payments, and serving food.

With my help, Vernon could focus on making coffee.

Time went by quickly that day. The afternoon sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the coffee shop, creating a scene of peace and beauty.

I savored this rare tranquility as I tidied up the coffee cups and magazines, preparing for the evening rush.

"Dad, I'm back," a voice broke the silence. I looked up and found a young lady standing at the door.

She had long blonde hair and an elegant figure, yet there was a hint of aloofness in her eyes.

"Nancy, you're here," Vernon greeted with a smile, exuding warmth and friendliness. "This is Hailey, our new employee."

Nancy turned to me, her gaze was indifferent as if assessing a newcomer without much interest.

However, when she saw Vernon's friendly smile and nod towards me, I could sense a subtle change flicker in her eyes, like a calm lake disturbed by a pebble, creating faint ripples.

"New employee?" she queried, her tone tinged with question, as if seeking to uncover a hidden story. "More like a wanderer."

Vernon frowned, disagreeing with her words.

He gently patted my shoulder in reassurance. "Don't worry. Nancy is a bit sensitive, but she means no harm."

I nodded. Actually, I didn't care about her attitude.

Compared to Connor, I think Nancy was already pretty good.

As the evening approached, the café was about to close for the day. With no customers here, I found a corner to start my supper.

At that moment, Nancy walked in. Her gaze fell on my food—a slice of bread and some cheese.

Her brows knitted together as she asked, "You content with just this?"

Looking up, I offered a smile and replied, "Yes, simple yet sufficient."

She looked around, noticing Vernon's departure, leaned in, and whispered, "I heard Vernon mention you plan to earn enough to repay your time in the town? " Her tone conveyed a blend of confusion and intrigue.

I nodded. "Yes, that's my responsibility."

Nancy paused, then shook her head and said softly, "You are such a fool."

She took out a few sandwiches from her bag and handed them to me with a casual air. "These are the leftovers from today. You want them? If not, they'll just end up in the trash."

Warmth washed over me as I looked at the sandwiches.

I could feel her kindness. Her words might be blunt, but she means well.

I took the sandwich and looked at her gratefully, "Thank you, Nancy. I really appreciate it."

Just then, the door of the coffee shop swung open, and Connor appeared at the entrance, his gaze as icy as frost.