Wendy took one look at the latte art and smiled. “It’s retail-ready.”

“Took me less than a week.”

“Mhm.”

Triumph flashed in Yeri’s eyes. “Told you I’m a genius.”

Wendy tried not to laugh. “Yeah, yeah. You are.”

“What’s my prize?”

“What prize?”

“I deserve a prize for learning it so quickly.”

“You’re right. You deserve a prize. How about an extra shift? Free of charge.”

Yeri cringed. “No, thank you.”

Wendy grinned. “As you wish.”

“I’ve been outplayed.”

“Does that mean I’m a genius of a genius?”

“Maybe it’s your genius that’s bringing Miss Taro Milk Tea back every Friday.”

“What are you talking about?”

Yeri smirked like a genius that knew she was a genius. “She’s opening the door as we speak.”

Wendy turned around and looked. Yeri was not teasing her. Miss Taro Milk Tea was walking towards her with a smile. And try as she might, she could not stop her lips from smiling right back.

“Hi sweetie pie, back for a cup of taro milk tea?”

“Yes, the usual, please.”

“Our taro milk tea is very flattered.”

“Well, credit has to go to the maker of the taro milk tea.”

“You’re right. No maker, no tea.”

“Get a room, boss. Get a room,” Yeri whispered in Wendy’s ear as she slipped away to the kitchen.

“I own this room,” Wendy whispered after her.

“Is there a problem?” Irene asked.

Turning back to Irene, Wendy smiled. “No, no problem at all. Everything is fine. Here by yourself today?”

“Yes.”

“Where’s your friend?”

“Joy, she’s at work.”

“Aww, but I’m glad you came.”

“Really?”

“Yes, of course.” Wendy grabbed a cup and started on the taro milk tea. “You’re the highlight of the day.”

“H-Highlight?”

“You’re quite the vision, I’m not gonna lie. After doing a long shift, it’s a real treat to see your smile in here.”

“I-I don’t know what to say.”

“Say yes to my question.”

“Huh?”

“Would you like to go out for drinks after my shift?”

“But I just bought a drink here.”

“I knock off at two, so you have plenty of time to finish your drink.”

Irene leaned over the counter, eyes narrow in a squint. “Are you seriously asking me out for drinks?”

“Yes, very seriously.”

“Is it about a business proposition?”

“Business? What do you mean? I’ve only been running this café for three months but it’s doing pretty well. Customer traffic is on the up and up. Reviews are mostly good. Why would I need you for business, sweetie pie?”

“That’s true. Your café is more crowded each time I come.”

“We’re at a good location and we serve pretty darn good coffee,” Wendy said with a smile, then added with a wink, “and taro milk tea.”

Irene looked away and bit her lip.

“Why did you think it’s for business though?”

“I-I don’t know.”

“Is it because you’re a newscaster? Do people ask you for favours?”

“Some places do.”

“I thought so. Yeri was adamant on getting your picture to put up for promotional purposes.”

“So why didn’t you?”

“Because I want everybody who steps in here to be comfortable and be themselves.” Wendy set the glass of taro milk tea on the counter and smiled at Irene. “Enjoy your drink, cutie.”

=

The seats near the windows were taken, unfortunately. With the growing crowd, choices had become more limited. Irene ended up at the table nearest the counter, and it had a good view of the woman making yet another cup of taro milk tea. She watched as Wendy smiled and chatted and served customer after customer. Until their eyes met.

There was something in Wendy’s eyes. Something more that she didn’t see in others. Something that sparked a thrill. It was hard