City – Louston Street
Rosetta stepped out of the dormitory, the morning air brushing gently against her face. The streets were still nearly empty, save for a few early risers beginning their day. The sun painted the sky in golden hues, and a calm quiet followed her hesitant steps.
She wore her blue jacket and carried a small canvas bag with a notebook and pen—just in case. Looking left and right, she whispered to herself:
"Alright... which café looks right? I need to look confident and polite. That's all I need."
She passed by a small café with a wooden front, its name "Café Mouras" etched in an ornate script. A large window revealed the inside—neatly arranged tables, tiny plants in the corners, and a warm, welcoming glow.
She hesitated, then sighed and said,
"This looks nice... let's try it."
She gently pushed the door open, a small bell above it chiming. A young woman behind the counter turned toward her. She had short red hair, brown eyes, and wore an apron.
With a bright smile, the girl said,
"Good morning! How can I help you?"
Rosetta answered confidently,
"Good morning. I'm looking for a part-time job."
The girl looked at her for a moment, then smiled wider.
"Oh! You're in luck. We're actually looking for someone to help out. Do you have any experience?"
Rosetta shook her head.
"No, but I learn quickly, and I'm very committed."
"That's the most important thing!" the girl replied enthusiastically.
"I'm Lara, and I've been working here for about a year. Give me one second, I'll go get the manager."
Lara disappeared into the kitchen, while Rosetta stood still, taking in the cozy details of the place. The café was small, but full of warmth. Aged wooden tables, the smell of fresh coffee in the air... everything felt comforting.
A man in his thirties came out—tall, wearing a gray shirt and dark pants. His black hair was tied back, and though his expression was serious, it wasn't intimidating. He stepped forward and said,
"I'm Ryan, the owner. I hear you're looking for a job?"
Rosetta, now more confident, placed a hand on her chest and said,
"Yes. My name is Rosetta Pilar, I'm a nursing student, and I need a part-time job to support myself."
He studied her for a few seconds before asking,
"Can you work on weekends? And a few afternoons during the week?"
"Yes, I can balance school and work."
He nodded slowly.
"Alright. We'll try you out today as a trainee. If you do well, you'll have a job here."
Rosetta's eyes lit up.
"Really?! Thank you so much. I won't let you down."
He handed her a brown apron and gave a small smile.
"Put this on and let Lara show you the ropes. It's going to be a long day... but a good one."
---
The day passed faster than Rosetta expected. Between setting up tables, learning how to use the coffee machine, and serving customers with a smile, she discovered a new side of herself—a capable, friendly girl, someone even strangers found likable just from her warm presence.
Lara was a huge help, always by her side. As for Ryan, he watched in silence. At the end of the day, he simply said,
"Good work, Rosetta. See you tomorrow?"
She nodded eagerly.
"Of course!"
She stepped out of the café at sunset, her features tired but glowing. Lifting her head toward the sky, she whispered,
"I'm doing well... that's good."
Then she made her way back to the student dorms.