The Cafe Chronicles

The Boss's Summons

Chapter 8:

Alex settled into his office chair, his mind still replaying the encounter with Julia. He picked up the phone and dialed Manager Dan's extension.

"Dan, it's Alex. How's everything going?" he asked, his tone professional.

Dan's gruff voice came through the line. "All good, Alex. Just the usual chaos. Why?"

"I was just at the cafe downstairs and met a fascinating woman. Julia, I think her name was. Is she new here?"

Dan's tone turned cautious. "Ah, Julia. Yes, she's new. Started a few weeks ago."

Alex's curiosity piqued. "Can I see her file, please?"

A pause, then Dan replied, "I'll send it over."

Alex waited, his eyes scanning the documents on his desk. Moments later, Dan arrived with a folder, which Alex opened immediately.

As he scanned Julia's file, his eyes widened. Single mother... living in the cafe... not part of the work ethics... His mind raced with questions and concerns.

Manager Dan walked back into the cafe, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on Julia. "Julia, the boss wants to see you," he said, his tone serious.

Julia's eyes widened in surprise. "But I thought he was still abroad?" she asked, her voice laced with concern.

Dan's expression was grim. "He's back, and he needs you in his office immediately."

Julia's brow furrowed. "What for?" she asked, a hint of worry creeping into her voice.

Dan's response was blunt. "Maybe he wants to fire you."

Julia's eyes went wide, and she felt a knot form in her stomach. She had been afraid of this moment, ever since she started living in the cafe with Diamond. Had she been found out? Was she about to lose her job, her home, and her security all at once?