Night Cafe: CEO's Secret Love

Coughing to break the awkward silence, Jade put on a smile and said, "There you go—that is how I was rescued by a stranger. Now, if you don't mind, I really should get back to work."

…

While Jade had been resting at home, Silver Fox's old client had repaired the cafe's window. In fact, he had done them one better. Originally, the window had just been plain, but the new window had a cute border around it with the words 'Night Cafe' written in the center, making the storefront look much more professional.

God only knew how Silver Fox's client had been able to prepare it on such short notice. Furthermore, the man had only charged them for the glass itself. The rest, he had said, was on him as a favor to a friend.

'I must remember to thank Silver Fox again when I next see him. He has certainly done us a big favor this time.'

Since her leg was still sore, Jade was working behind the counter, making the drinks and operating the till. Meanwhile, Harriet was taking the drinks and food over to the customers and dealing with any fussy customers.

'Such a good employee. It's going to be a shame to see her go…

'We should organize some kind of farewell slash congratulations party. I'll discuss it with her later.'

Lost in such thoughts, Jade accidentally let one of the coffees overflow.

"Stupid," she muttered under her breath as she wiped up the spilled drink. "I'll have to start that again."

Jade swiftly got out a clean mug and started the machine before taking the used mug into the kitchen to be washed—the dishwasher was in a small room at the back of the kitchen.

On her way back to the counter, she grabber Bernie and asked, "Bern, given everything that's happened recently, what with Frank and what's going on with Harriet, I was thinking of throwing a party—just a small thing at the cafe to say goodbye and wish her well. What do you think?"

Bernie smiled. Since the incident with Frank, perhaps due to the guilt of leaving Jade alone at the cafe, he had been much nicer. Bernie had always been kind, but he would normally put up a grumpy front. For now, that front had been replaced by a truly gentle exterior. "Sure, Jade, whatever you want. I can bake a nice cake if you want. Is red velvet okay?"

Hearing that, a broad grin surfaced on Jade's face. "That's brill! Thanks, Bern!"

With a cheerful smile, Jade practically skipped out to the storefront, only remembering the pain in her leg when she settled behind the counter and noticed a slight twinge.

She tried to suppress the groan that threatened to escape her mouth, but a small hiss still broke through her lips.

"Hiss…"

Harriet, who had just come back to collect the next table's drinks, asked concernedly, "Are you sure you're okay? If you're still not right, we can ask the new kid to start early. He has offered after all."