Just Before Close - Short Story

I glanced at the clock. With only five minutes left before close, I was less than pleased to turn and see a potential customer hastily striding toward the shop door. Putting down the mop, I took a deep breath, willing myself to smile as she entered. “Hello.”

“Hi.” The lady replied, obviously in a rush. “Sorry, I know you’re closing soon. What’s easiest for you?”

Taken a back, I arch a brow, “Drip coffee?”

“That sounds great!” After pulling off her gloves, she retrieves a blue wallet from her shoulder bag.

“$2.05, please.” I say, taking her reusable cup from the counter. “Do you need me to leave room?”

“Yes, please.”

“Do you take milk or cream?”

“Cream please.”

There’s just enough liquid left to sufficiently fill the cup. Back at the counter, I set down the cup and bottle of creamer after which the lady hands me $5.05 in cash. “Perfect. Thank you so much.”

“Thank you for asking what’s easiest,” I say with a genuine smile on my face.

After handing her three dollars in change, she begins to rattle on with an energy that would contradict her need for any more caffeine today. “Oh, there was no way that I could have asked you to make anything that complicated just before close. I’ve been there. Not in a coffee shop, but you know, I’ve been there. I just really appreciate it. When my GPS told me that you were closing at 7, I was afraid I wouldn’t make it in time. And I needed this. Just to get through my show tonight.”

She popped on the lid as I walked back to my mop and bucket. A couple coins dropped in the tip jar before I heard her call out, “Have a great night!”