Lucia’s plan

"Aren't you happy to see me? I told you I'd come," Crawford said, his voice low and teasing.

Lucia's smile didn't waver, but her heart skipped a beat. "I'm working right now, Mr. Crawford," she replied. "But your presence is always noted."

Crawford smirked raising a brow

As Lucia finished setting up Crawford's meal, she returned to her station. "Why would you say that you idiot." She said scolding herself.

As Crawford ate, Lucia tried to focus on her work, but she couldn't help feeling nervous, her palms damp with sweat.

Her gaze drifted out the window to distract herself, Lucia watched for a moment as a couple walked by, hand in hand, lost in their own world. She felt a bit of longing but quickly looked away, not wanting to get caught up in daydreams.

As the minutes ticked by, Crawford finished his meal and gave her a nod. She approached, her voice barely above a whisper. 

"Was the meal to your liking?"