Nick of Time

Serena was a chatterbox when she was nervous.

Geale noticed how she seemed to talk to customers more when they made her feel anxious. She gave out lengthy explanations when they complained about their order being late or when the dish they wanted wasn't available.

Customers at the restaurant were generally kind and considerate. They didn't get mad easily but they did ask questions when they felt that something was wrong. Being asked questions seemed to rattle Serena but she always responded to it with a bright smile and a string of flowery words.

Serena was talking a lot about the desserts she makes. She pointed out the shops and stalls along the road as she and Geale walked past them on their way to the bus station.

"Oh look, puppies!" Serena exclaimed, looking excitedly at a pet shop window.

Geale turned to look at it. "Puppies?" The puppies he knew had pudgy bodies, flippers and flat tails. What he saw was a small furry animal with four legs and hopeful doe eyes.