“When a Crest Wing dragon shifter wants something, they get it.”
“Rich people.” It’s something I and the other baristas used to say. It was mildly amusing to me to begin with because growing up, I didn’t think of my family as rich. It was only when I went to college and my circle of friends grew that I realized how lucky I was.
I should have expected it when my mother explained why they weren’t going to pay for my last year of college, that it wasn’t a good investment of their money since I’d never get a job that would pay enough to cover the degree. I went against their wishes, pushed them and reinforced their assumption that I’d never amount to much.
Wren begged me to go back and get my major changed. She’d majored in nursing, all the while knowing she wanted to be a flight attendant so she could see the world and travel.“Make it your own. Just tell Mom and Dad you want to work in finance. Your grades are good enough.”
I miss Wren already, and it hasn’t even been four days since I saw her last.
I put the box down on the table and pick up the coffee cup. “How do you deal with them, Leo?”
“Rich people or the gentlemen of the house?”
“Both, I guess.”
“Well . . . it’s just in me, I suppose.”
“Are you happy with that?”
“Very much, Miss Fischer.”
“And you’ve never thought about leaving?”
“Never. Cloud Rift and Crest Wing are my home now. And they have been for a long time.”
“You’re good at your job.”
“Merci.”
“You’re welcome, but it’s obvious. I’m sure the gentlemenof the house appreciate you.” I take another sip of his amazing coffee. “And this is fantastic.” I set it on the tray.
“It’s an honor to serve you, Miss Fischer. Lunch is at noon. Unless you would like me to bring it to the eastern patio?”
“Outside . . . Yes, but I can come and?—”
Leo cocks his head, a light smile at the corner of his lips.
“Thank you, Leo.”
He turns to leave.
“Leo?” I say once he’s out in the hall.
“Yes, Miss Fischer?”
“How come... how come you’re the only staff member who talks to me?”
He nods. “Yes . . .”
I’m not sure he’s going to continue.
“That is a question for Mr. Alder. It has nothing to do with anything you’ve done. It’s customary for one in your position.”
“They’re not allowed to talk to me? But why? I won’t keep them from doing their work.”
“I wouldn’t imagine you would. From my observation, you have a strong work ethic, one that I appreciate.”
It’s a great compliment, one that means a lot coming from someone like Leo. “You are really good at your job.”
