Chapter 39

Chapter 39

Sophia exhaled sharply, massaging her wrist as she stepped back. A part of her felt triumphant—seeing Katrina riled up was satisfying. But she didn’t have time for all this She needed to get to Pappies on time, and dealing with Katrina wasn’t on her to-do list.  

Pulling out her phone, she checked the time. She hadn’t made an official appointment, which she now wondered if she should have, but there was no going back. She had to at least show up and try.  

As she made her way toward Pappies, the cool afternoon breeze brushed against her skin. It was a short walk from her lecture hall, but it felt unfamiliar. This was the first time she had come to this side of the school, and she took in her surroundings as she walked.  

The atmosphere was quieter here, with fewer students loitering around. Most of them seemed busy, either in hushed conversations or heading toward different buildings. Sophia adjusted the strap of her bag on her shoulder and quickened her pace. She didn’t want to be late.  

As she approached the place , she took a moment to observe it from the outside. The place had a cozy charm—large glass windows framed the front, allowing a glimpse inside where a few customers were already seated, sipping their drinks. A faint sound of talks and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee ,neatly baked pastries and also pizza drifted through the slightly open door.  

Sophia hesitated for a brief second before pushing the door open.  

A soft chime rang as she stepped inside. The warmth of the café wrapped around her immediately, a little different from the crisp air outside. The interior had a welcoming feeling —wallpaper set up on the walls, wooden tables, and a counter lined with pastries and a variety of drinks. It wasn’t too crowded, which made her sigh in relief.  

She saw some young people,who she definitely know we're students like her tending to tables and going about their duty

She glanced around, searching for someone who looked like they might be in charge. A young woman in an apron stood behind the counter, taking an order from a customer. Sophia took a steadying breath before walking up.  

"Hi, I’m here about the job application," I saw the ad on the pizza she said, her voice steady despite the fact that she was nervous about this 

The woman looked up, giving her a quick once-over before offering a polite smile. "Oh, you’ll want to speak with Mr. Harris. Give me a moment."  

Sophia nodded and shifted her weight, glancing around once more as she waited. She had no idea what to expect, but she was ready. , the lady told he to have a seat , the she will be attended to shortly

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She took a seat back and waited for them to get back to her.  

A few minutes later, the lady from behind the counter emerged from a door at the far end of the café. Sophia guessed it led to an office, maybe even a backroom where the staff prepped for their shifts.  

"Hey, you can come in now," the lady said, offering a small nod in Sophia’s direction.  

Sophia quickly stood up, smoothing out her shirt before following behind. She became even more nervous as she stepped through the doorway, leading her into what appeared to be the manager’s office.  

The room was simple but professional, with a neat wooden desk, a few filing cabinets, and a large window that allowed natural light to brighten the space. Sitting behind the desk was a woman—mid-forties, neatly dressed, with an air of authority.  

Sophia felt a bit of relief. It was good to see a woman in charge here. Maybe that would increase her chances of getting the job.  

"Take a seat," the manager said, gesturing toward the chair across from her.  

Sophia sat down, doing her best to maintain eye contact and look confident, even though her heart was racing a little.  

"So, what is your name?" the manager asked, flipping through what appeared to be an application form.  

"Yes ma'am my name is Sophia ," she said with a small nod.  

"My name is Melissa Harris. I run things around here. I see you’re interested in the part-time position we have open. Can you tell me a little about yourself?"  

Sophia took a quiet breath. She had prepared for this—or at least, she had told herself she wouldn’t freeze up.  

"Well, I’m a student here, and I’m looking for a job to support myself while in school. One that can help me sort my little bills and also give me time to focus on my studies. I have some experience working with people, and I learn quickly. I’m also very organized and hardworking."  

Melissa nodded as she listened. "That’s good to hear. We’re looking for someone reliable who can handle a fast-paced environment. You know with this being a school, business is slow this afternoon but it's usually different on other daysHave you worked in a café or restaurant before?"  

Sophia hesitated for a split second before answering. "Not exactly, but I have experience handling customers in other jobs.one was at a store counter so I know how to deal with people, take orders, and work under pressure."  

Melissa studied her for a moment, then jotted something down on the paper in front of her.  

"Customer service is a big part of this job," she said. "You’ll be taking orders, preparing drinks, handling the cash register, and sometimes even helping out in the kitchen when needed. Are you comfortable multitasking?"  

It sounded like a lot to Sophia , but it was nothing she couldn't handle 

"Yes," Sophia said confidently.  

"Good," Melissa said, setting her pen down. "Let me show you around so you can get a feel for the place."  

Sophia’s shoulders relaxed slightly. Damn that was quick and it sounded promising. She stood up and followed as Melissa led her out of the office and into the main café area.  

"This is the front counter, where most of the action happens," Melissa explained as they walked. "You’ll take orders here, handle payments, and make sure customers get their drinks and pastries quickly."  

Sophia observed the space carefully. The counter was lined with an espresso machine, cash registers, and neatly organized displays of muffins, croissants, and other baked goods. The smell of fresh coffee filled the air, making her stomach rumble slightly.  

Melissa led her toward the back, where she pushed open another door.  

"Back here is where we do most of the prep work, the baking and all, it's here all the magic takes place," she said. The kitchen was small but efficient, with shelves stocked with ingredients and a large sink where one of the employees was washing dishes. "You might not have to do much back here, but sometimes we need an extra set of hands." We are hoping you could come through, in a case if one of the colleagues calls in sick

Sophia nodded, taking mental notes.it was something she could do

Finally, Melissa walked her toward a small break area with a few chairs and lockers. "This is where staff can take short breaks when things slow down."  

She turned back to Sophia. "So, what do you think? Do you feel like this is something you can handle?"  

Sophia met her gaze and smiled slightly. "Yes, I think I can."  

Melissa nodded. "Alright. I have a few more candidates to interview, but I’ll let you know soon. But I have a feeling you are just the right person for the job, how soon can you start the job ?

Sophia took a pause so she could decide on this

I am ready whenever I am called upon"Thank you for the opportunity," Sophia said sincerely.  

  Alright then can you drop a way I can reach you or something, we will send you a text before the end of tomorrow 

   Working hours are in shifts , from 2pm -7pm, then 7pm- 10pm is that ok with you

She nodded affirmatively and thanked the lady once again 

She stepped out of the café feeling lighter. The interview had gone well—at least, she hoped it had. Now, all she could do was wait for a response 

  

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