The bell above the bakery door chimed as Mira stepped inside, nerves tightening in her chest. The smell of warm bread and coffee wrapped around her, comforting but overwhelming. She had promised herself she wouldn't lean on Isadora anymore, and this was the first step — a job of her own.
Lee looked up from behind the counter, flour streaked across his forearms, his apron dusted white. He gave her a quick smile. "You're here. Good. Let's see what you can do."
Mira tied the apron he handed her, trying to ignore the tremor in her hands. Lee pointed toward the tables. "Start with serving. Take orders, deliver them, smile. That's all."
The first customer waved her over. Mira hurried, notebook in hand. "Good morning," she said brightly. "What can I get you?"
