“I suggest you get the broom. And maybe make a fresh pot of coffee before the crowds come back.”
“Okay- but before I do…” Jacob went to the back of the store and frowned. Behind him, stacks of bagged coffee beans. Cups and lids and everything else one would need to have a functioning and well established coffee shop. Normally he wouldn’t leave the floor in the middle of his shift, but there was no one out there currently so he wanted to take advantage.
With Teddy perched on his shoulder, Jacob went to a small section of the back space where the old machines were. This was where they made their large batch coffees and was also where they would sometimes experiment with new recipes.
“This should do.” Jacob said to himself. Surrounded by open spice jars and empty coffee bags, all of which were screaming to be combined like some bizarre, caffeinated symphony.
“What do you want to do?” The bird asked.
“Okay,” Jacob said, pacing. “Let’s try something productive. I want to make a drink that gives me something.”
“Energy? Confidence? A really big dick?”
“Let’s just stick to energy for now.” Jacob began. “But let me consider that last one for later.”
“Dangerous game, but sure. Let’s see what you got.” Teddy chuckled to himself. “This ought to be good.”
Jacob held his hand up to the ingredients and waited.
“What are you doing?” Teddy asked.
“Awaiting inspiration. It’s coming. I just need to…Focus.” Jacob grit his teeth.
“Okay. You keep focusing and something will happen soon.” Teddy began.
They waited a few minutes, and nothing happened.
“Or maybe not.” Teddy responded.
“I don’t get it. I’m here. I know I can do this now- what’s wrong?” Jacob asked.
“It’s just a new gift. You can’t just turn it on and off. It’s not a date.” Teddy responded.
“Date…” Jacob whispered. “Oh shit.”
“What is it?” Teddy replied as Jacob looked at his watch.
“It’s almost 1pm.” Jacob said as he looked into a reflective surface to try to tame his hair.
“What happens at 1pm?” Teddy asked.
“It’s just- it’s important…” Jacob responded as he tried to make himself presentable.
“What? You got a lady friend or something coming in?” Teddy asked.
“What? No- I just-” Jacob looked at Teddy confused. “Lady friend?”
“Yes?” Teddy looked at him strangely.
The bell chimed as the door opened.
The breath caught in Jacobs throat.
In strolled Joe with all of his usual confidence and allure.
Time seemed to freeze as it always did when he entered. Every movement he did was soft and deliberate, yet strong and powerful. His body was immaculate. His face, angelic. Him - perfect - at least in Jacobs eyes.
Teddy clocked the moment.
