The Scent of Coffee - Chapter 2

Read Chapter 1 here

A shorter chapter this time, mostly intended as a transition.

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Chapter 2 - Absence

Weeks passed, and Rory and Finnley had grown accustomed to the routine of Lloyd’s Café. Until one day, they stepped in and something felt off. In place of his cheerful greeting, they were met by a tall and elegant female armadillo, a long blonde ponytail draped over her left shoulder.

Rory’s heart skipped a beat. "Where's Lloyd?" He blurted, his voice louder than intended.

The female armadillo glanced up, her green eyes widening briefly in surprise. As understanding dawned, her expression softened, and her eyes relaxed into a half-lidded gaze, a subtle smile playing on her face. "Who's asking?"

Realizing his demeanor , Rory came to his senses and looked down. "S-Sorry," He stammered, scratching the back of his neck. "We’re just used to seeing him here."

Her smile deepened. “Let me guess—you must be Rory.” She said as she slung a towel over her shoulder, folding her arms over her chest with grace. She tilted her head and looked at the lobster. “And you must be Finnley.”

Rory blinked, visibly surprised, while Finnley smirked knowingly, already guessing why she’d recognize them.

“Lloyd has mentioned a certain duo—salmon and a lobster—with… remarkable scents,” she teased. The few surrounding customers snickered. “I’m Nancy,” she continued. “Lloyd’s sister. Pleased to meet you.”

Rory and Finnley properly introduced themselves before sliding onto the counter stools, they both placed their orders as Rory remained flustered. “I’m really sorry, Nancy. I didn’t mean to sound rude,” he sighed.

Nancy waved a hand dismissively as she worked behind the counter. “Don’t sweat it, darling. I understand,” she assured. Moments later, she returned and set their coffees and pastries down with calm, the porcelain landing soundlessly. “I don’t think I can compete with Lloyd’s service when it comes to the two of you,” she said, a playful high-pitched tone to her voice. She locked her eyes with Rory for a second, and then added, “But, I hope it’s up to your standards.”

Rory and Finnley sipped their coffee in silence. Finnley’s eyes flicked toward Rory, noting the worry written all over his face. He wasn’t the type to let his emotions show so plainly, and Finnley felt unsettled by that.

Nancy, now standing behind them, placed her hands on their shoulders and sighed. "You really don't have to worry about Lloyd,” her voice was warm and soothing. ”He's at home, resting. Caught a bit of a cold, but it's nothing serious. He just needs a day or two to recover."

Rory’s expression only softened slightly, his eyes heavy with concern. "Oh, poor Lloyd…” he murmured.

Finnley masked his unease with a cheerful grin and took a chance. "Maybe we should pay him a visit!" he said, looking at Nancy for her approval. She raised her brows slightly, but then nodded at him with a subtle smile.

On the other hand, Rory bursted into an immediate reaction. "No way!” he exclaimed as his eyes darted toward Finnley. His voice softened as he added, “We shouldn't bother him…"

Nancy chuckled, shifting her weight and resting her hands on her hips. She looked up as though in deep thought. “Actually…” she voiced her contemplation, “that might be exactly what he needs. I think he’d like that.”

Rory felt hesitant. His palms damp in sweat as he felt even more nervous. He wasn’t sure why the idea unsettled him so much—or he was, but refused to be true to his feelings. He gripped the edge of the table, his shoulders were tense as his eyes scanned the wood of the furniture, his mind rushing to find any reasoning behind his reaction.