Page 9 of Working For Her Sweet Treats
“I’m standing in line.”
“You’re assessing, Mr. Dalton.”
“I have eyes.”
“Try using them on the menu instead.”
I look at the chalkboard.
MUFFIN OF THE WEEK: CARAMEL APPLE
Below that, smaller lettering lists flavored coffees:
MAPLE CINNAMON
CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT
ORANGE CINNAMON
When I reach the counter, Ava sets both hands beside the register.
“What can I get you?”
“Coffee.”
“Which flavor?”
“Regular.”
Her eyebrows lift.
I hold her gaze for two seconds.
“Maple cinnamon.”
“I thought so.”
“And another muffin.”
“The caramel apple?”
“That’s the muffin you have.”
“It is the muffin of the week.”
“Then why ask?”
“Customers enjoy the illusion of choice.”
She turns to retrieve one.
“Two,” I say.
Ava looks over her shoulder. “Is one for someone else?”
“No.”
The smile arrives fully this time. It changes her entire face. I should leave immediately. Instead, I add a cinnamon roll.
