Chapter Fifty-One
Noah's POV — Warmth in Winter
The café was louder than usual.
Cups clinked, people laughed, and the warm smell of coffee and fresh cake filled the air.
I leaned over the counter, watching a customer take the first bite.
He paused.
Then his face lit up.
"This is amazing!"
I smiled slightly.
"I'm glad you like it."
My mom glanced at me from behind the counter.
"Noah, don't just stand there. More orders are coming."
"Yes, Mom," I replied, quickly moving.
Even when she sounded strict, there was always warmth in her voice.
The door opened, letting in a rush of cold air.
"Welcome—"
I paused.
"Xavier?"
He stepped in casually.
"Busy as always."
I nodded.
"It's Christmas season. Of course it is."
I prepared his coffee and placed it in front of him.
"Here."
He took a sip.
"Better than before."
I raised an eyebrow.
"That almost sounds like a compliment."
From the side, my mom spoke calmly,
"Say thank you when someone praises your work."
I sighed lightly.
"…Thank you."
Xavier smirked.
Later, when the café quieted down a little, I leaned against the counter.
Just for a moment.
"Don't lean too much," my mom said gently. "You'll get tired."
"I'm fine, Mom."
She gave me a look.
"You've been working nonstop."
I softened a little.
"I'll rest after this."
She nodded.
"Good."
My thoughts drifted for a second.
Clare.
Wilson.
Jack—
I stopped.
"…Nothing," I muttered.
"Hmm?" my mom asked.
"Nothing, Mom."
She didn't press further, but I knew she noticed.
She always did.
She placed a cup of coffee in front of me.
"Drink this."
I looked at it.
"You made it?"
"Of course."
I took a sip.
It tasted… different.
Better.
I glanced at her.
"It's good."
She smiled slightly.
"I've been doing this longer than you."
I laughed softly.
"Fair enough, Mom."
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