Viv and Cal crowded close to watch, until she gave them both the side-eye, and they quickly found other tasks with which to busy themselves.
Tandri straightened and stood back to examine her handiwork. “Help me get it on the wall,” she said.
Viv lifted it into place.
~Legends & Lattes ~
re-est. NOVENDER 1386
GRAND REOPENING
~Menu~
Coffee ~ exotic aroma & rich, full-bodied roast—½ bit
Latte ~ a sophisticated and creamy variation—1 bit
Any drink ICED ~ a refined twist—add ½ bit
Cinnamon Roll ~ heavenly frosted cinnamon pastry—4 bits
Thimblets ~ crunchy nut & fruit delicacies—2 bits
Midnight Crescents ~ buttery foldover with a sinful center—4 bits
Inquire About Traveling Mugs
*
WHAT FLAMES COULD NOT CONSUME,
NEVER SHALL BE EXTINGUISHED
* * *
When they opened the doors,there was already a line down the street, despite the cold. They ushered everyone inside, letting the line curl back into the dining area, and the shop rapidly warmed. Cheerful conversation drowned out the hiss of the machine, and eager customers with red cheeks and coats undone offered congratulations as they gratefully took their hot drinks and shuffled to find seats.
“Early for you, isn’t it?” greeted Viv, when Hemington stepped up to the counter.
“Yes, well,” he replied, looking with real appreciation around the shop. “It’s all rather exciting, though, isn’t it? I’ve missed this place, I don’t mind saying.”
“Not just your research, then?”
He sighed, “Whatever phenomenon was happening here, it’s passed. The ley lines fluctuate as normal. I can’t help but wonder if that fire had something to do with it. Did they ever find the arsonist?”
“Afraid not,” said Viv.
“A shame. Still, this is all so much more comfortable.”
Viv nodded. “Iced coffee, then?”
He deliberated for a moment, and then, with some embarrassment, said, “You know, given the weather… perhaps I’ll have… a hot one.”
She cocked an eyebrow at him. “You, Hem?”
Hemington coughed. “Ah. And one of those rolls.”
She smiled and didn’t give him any further trouble over it.
