Bittersweet (English)

CHAPTER 23

Days, weeks, months have passed but Kaye and Mykel never discussed their dilemma again. Spring was almost over and she was glad Mykel respected her wishes. But soon she needed to give him an answer.

Kaye had long figured out that they’d come to this. It was only delayed due to her denial. She knew Mykel wouldn’t accept this kind of setup.

Mykel acted like himself with everyone though. Despite that, the distance between them became more distinct, making it obvious that something was off to some people. But none of them asked anything. Were they oblivious? Or just respecting their privacy?

Surprisingly though, she received a call from Mykel earlier today about a certain group of tourists. She had second thoughts. Nonetheless, she was glad she answered his call. Or else, she would have suffered under Jenny’s poisonous claws.

“I’d be escorting them. Expect us to be there in ten minutes or so,” he said before ending the call.

In a way, it made her feel upset. The tone of his voice was too formal. Like someone serious salesman contacting his prospective clients.

He sounded as cold as the Strawberry and Peach sandwich she made earlier. It was a new addition to their menu, a start-up on their seasonal gimmick. She called it a sandwich since it looked like one and she used bread, though her fillings comprised of heavy cream and fruit.

Apparently, there were a couple of tourists roaming around searching for the cafe. They probably used a private car on the main road. Otherwise, they would have seen their signage all over the train station.

According to Mykel, one of them requested to feature the shop on a video blog. She was caught in awe hearing those words. Sure they were hoping to attract the media but she didn’t expect it to be so soon. Regardless of the surprise, everyone was excited.

Summer was already at arm's length so it’s understandable if tourists started to gather. It was good news for them actually.

Jenny was particularly elated since they have been planning to get someone to feature the cafe online to reach more potential customers. More exposure means more money. Hopefully, they could earn what they lost during the winter storm.

There were hardly any customers yet since they just opened the shop so they have time to accommodate the interview. Jenny was eager to set up the area that would suit best their audience. And of course, show off the best angle of the cafe.

Everyone was enthusiastic. Keith and Stella who worked part-time were both present today. They looked extra presentable. After all, they might gain some screen time.

Fifteen minutes passed and a group of tourists arrived at their front door.

“All right. I’ll be in the kitchen if you need me,” Stef yelled running away from the crowd.

Are all chefs like this?  Unsociable? Jenny sighed. But then her mood changed when the front door chimed.

Mykel accompanied them inside with a pleasant smile. He appeared dependable. Like always. But with his uniform on, he looked perfectly suited for the job like someone who could take away anyone’s worries.

“Welcome to Sweet Macys',” Jenny smiled from ear to ear. Business mode on. Even for Kaye, it was too much.

Keith and Stella never looked better. They seemed like kids trying to impress judges in an idol audition. Well, Keith still qualified as a kid. But definitely not Stella. 

Kaye giggled as she realized how conscious everyone was. Keith was putting an effort with his charming smile. While Stella seemed extra gracious today. 

Now, this is entertaining. Kaye snorted to herself.

“Having fun, aren’t we?”

She flinched. She barely felt Mykel standing behind her. It was creepy knowing she didn’t feel his presence considering his size.

“I’m trying to be positive on this since Jenny has been earnest on promoting the shop,” she replied ignoring the fast beating of her heart.

“Right. But not so positive when it comes to me.”

Oh good heavens.

She pressed her eyes and let out a frustrated sigh. He’s so persistent. They have been going on with ignorance for so long that she forgot how to compromise.

But she did want to settle it with him. She just didn’t know where to start.

Who knew running away could be exhausting? She thought it was an easy way out but it just brought her the opposite.

Before she could find the words to respond, Jenny called her over. Jenny proudly introduced her to a guest.

“You know, Miss Aya here particularly asked for you.” Jenny started gently patting her shoulders. “She saw the website and was amazed by your sweets so she was hoping to talk to you about it.”

“But of course,” Kaye replied making an effort to smile.

Jenny’s subtle act was a signal for her. She wanted her to pull herself together and be accommodating in front of the camera.

The woman named Aya seemed like a gentle person. Her smile wasn’t as wide as Jenny had but she gave off a nice feeling. So Kaye was confident she could handle the interview.

Jenny left and offered Mykel coffee before leaving. She spared a glance at him when he was by the door. Their eyes met and to her surprise, he gave her an amused smile.

Kaye grew paranoid. Was her aura not that convincing at all? Does her smile seem forced?

Anyhow, the interview session was stressing her a lot. Her hands were all sweaty. She has never done something like this after all. If it was about the shop as an overall surely, Jenny should be sitting here instead of her. But Aya specially requested for her.

The other guests were at different tables checking the menu. By the looks on their faces, they were enjoying their stay.

“So, Miss Jenny told me you were mainly responsible for the desserts menu. Is that right?” Aya asked starting for the interview.

She felt bad being nervous about the interview. Aya looked so kind especially when she smiles. It’s comforting yet she had trouble coping up with her inner emotions.

“You are right, Miss Aya.”

“Aya would be fine. I hope I’m not troubling you in any way,” she uttered looking concerned.

“Ah, no. Sorry. I’m just not used to this. I usually stay in the kitchen after all."

Aya looked like she was younger than her but she’s the one behaving immaturely. She took a deep breath to calm herself.

“Stef and I are the only chefs here. Though I can also make the other dishes, my focus is on the desserts. So  Stef usually makes the other dishes available on the menu. As you can observe, we have a manager and two dining staff. They are part-timers but they are reliable at the job.”

“Well, looks like you’ll need more manpower. Your town seems to be booming nowadays.”

She couldn’t agree more. With the improvement on the seaside, visitors had been flocking lately. The train station even increased trips to accommodate more visitors. Someone was even planning on building an inn to take in tourists.

“We are thinking about that when this social media thing began. Mt. Salvador may be small but we do have lots of capable people around here,” Kaye responded with a frugal smile.

“That’s fantastic! I even read on the site that the business started 30 years ago. Did your parents personally established the shop?”

“Oh no. The shop sure had been here even before I was born but it was established by my Aunt Macy. I lost my parents when I was four so the only parent I remember was her. As far as my memory served, she had been taking care of me. Though sad to say, you won’t be meeting her anymore.”

“Oh, my.” Aya gasped in realization. She didn’t mean any harm by the question. “That was unexpected. I apologize if I ever made you feel uneasy.”

Kaye dismissed the idea. She had moved past that phase. And all the moments they shared, she’d always treasure in her heart.

“She was fond of creating her own recipe. We would bond together over food. Like eating other cuisines. Or trying other restaurants. She even taught me everything about desserts. I can say her influence made a huge impact on my future. Looking back, she didn’t look tired at all. Just someone who was passionate about their craft.”

She couldn’t help the feel of nostalgia. She held dear all those precious memories. Months ago, she’d feel depressed about those memories. But now, she was just thankful she got to spend those times with Macy.

“Every time she comes up with a new menu, she'd invite everyone to try it. She’s as loving and sweet as the desserts she made. Thus the name Sweet Macys',” Kaye smiled with pride.

“Good to see you finally settling.” Aya pointed out. Kaye was more comfortable than when they started the interview. Even her happy expression looked genuine. This would seem to be the beginning of the real interview. “Can you walk me through your menu?”