5. Olive
5
OLIVE
L eo wants to have coffee with me. Me! But he’s the manager! Do managers have coffee with their guests to be hospitable? Is that ethical? Do I care? No.
“Sure. I’d love to,” I say, ignoring my conflicted thoughts. I shove my hands in my pockets. “If it doesn’t take away from your job, of course.”
A handsome, bald man in a black and red checkered flannel, dirty jeans, and work boots walks toward us with a coffee in hand. And is that—I squint—a kitten cradled in his other arm? When he passes us, he scowls at Leo and, wait, did he grunt too? Leo snickers.
“Friend of yours?” I whisper once the guy disappears around a corner.
“That was my brother, Sully. My sister and I played a joke on him a couple of hours ago, and he’s still pissed at us.”
“When I was sitting by the fireplace, I saw you with a woman in the lobby by the Christmas tree. Was that your sister?”
“Was she short with shoulder-length brown hair?” I nod. “Yes, that was Tonya. Unfortunately, Sully’s one big grump and we try to lighten him up. Sometimes we go too far. I’m sure I’d be like him too if I were in his situation.” He waves it off. “Enough of that. Let’s eat.”
It sounds like his entire family works here. At least his sister and brother do. I’m intrigued and want to ask him a ton of questions, but I’ll start with the important one.
“Okay, but first—was he holding a gray kitten with blue eyes, or am I delusional from lack of sugar?”
“Nope, not delusional. He found her a couple weeks ago. That kitten hasn’t left his side ever since. Don’t they say pets pick their owners?”
“Couldn’t tell ya. I never had one.”
“Doesn’t matter. Sully’s sweet and gentle with her, and he only grunts at us.”
That’s a lot to take in. It’s a reminder that everyone’s dealing with their own struggles, some more visible than others. Do I look miserable? Andy usually tells me when I do, which is pretty often. But since I arrived here, I haven’t felt that way. This is exactly what I needed—to get out of my head and to forget, even if it’s only for a little while, what I left behind.
The tempting fragrances of roasted coffee beans and baked goods reach out and surround us like a blanket. My stomach wakes up and grumbles. I don’t know the last time I’ve been this hungry.
I raise my chin and take a deep breath. “Something smells delicious.”
“Yep, and it’s right ahead through those doors.” Leo presses lightly on my lower back with his hand, urging me to go first, sending delectable tingles up my spine. Then his hand is gone. I glance at him and, with a flicker of surprise, see that he’s rubbing his neck and grinning. Did he feel it too, or is his neck stiff?
We enter the café, and my mouth drops open. “This place is amazing. It’s like we walked off a street in Paris into a fancy conservatory full of people.”
The glass walls and roof offer a view outside. An elegant gold chandelier with dangling crystals illuminates the room. To the left is a long white counter with gold accents and large, pastel-pink floral arrangements. Behind it are floor-to-ceiling glass display cabinets and a refrigerator filled with colorful delights. White tables with lit candles and pink-fabric wingback chairs fill the rest of the open space. French music plays softly in the background. Lively chatter from guests and the grinding of coffee beans adds to the charm. You’d never know that Christmas was a week ago.
“Hi, Mr. Leo,” a young boy says, running up to us with a big toothless grin. He raises his hand, and Leo high-fives him.
Leo kneels down to be eye level with him. “Hey, Mr. Cody. Aren’t you a happy camper this afternoon?” He waves to a couple at a table nearby. I’m assuming the boy’s parents.
“Guess what I saw yesterday?” Cody bounces on the tips of his toes, his eyes lit up with glee.
Leo tilts his head. “Hmm. A dinosaur?” Cody shakes his head and giggles. “Oh, I know. A clown?” The boy’s nose crinkles with disgust. Leo lifts his hands up in front of him. “Okay, someone doesn’t like clowns.” Who does? “I give up. Let me hear it.”
The boy’s eyes grow wide. “I saw a big fat whale,” he says, loud enough that other customers look in our direction.
“No way! That’s fantastic.” Leo messes with Cody’s hair. “You’re lucky to have seen one this time of year.”
“And look, I got this.” He dashes over to where the man and woman are getting up from their table. With an amused face, the woman hands Cody a large stuffed-animal whale. He runs back and shakes it in the air at Leo, handing it to him. “Mommy bought me this after we saw it.”
Leo turns the whale side to side, pretending he’s never seen anything like it. “This is awesome.” He hands it back to the boy. “Take good care of it.”
Leo urges me to come closer, then introduces me to Cody and his parents. Cody pulls on Leo’s shirt for him to bend over again.
“She’s pretty,” he mutters to Leo behind his hand, loud enough that I can hear him.
“She is, isn’t she?” Leo mutters back.
I don’t know where to look or what to do. I’m completely out of my element, it’s bizarre. Don’t get me wrong, I’m flattered. Is this how Dorothy felt when she walked out of her house in Munchkinland? Leo peeks at me, grins, and high-fives Cody again. His parents say their goodbyes and urge Cody out of the café.
I haven’t been around this many people in months, and I’m in major overload. My hands are cold and clammy, and a slight headache throbs behind my eyes. I’m tempted to leave, but I can’t quite yet. I’m enjoying watching Leo interact with the guests. His warm, cheerful expressions give him a friendly, approachable look that would give anybody a sense of comfort. I thought I’d be alone in my room by this time, not out socializing. I take a deep breath to calm my jittery nerves.
Leo notices and quickly says, “I’m sorry, Olive. It’s good for me to interact with the guests and make them feel at home. They’re a nice family.”
“No need to apologize. You’re working. I’m the one who should—I’m keeping you from your job.”
“No, you aren’t. My work’s here in this café right now. That’s my excuse, and I’m sticking to it.” He combs his fingers through his wavy hair and turns toward the counter. I wonder if it feels as soft as it looks. “Now, didn’t we come here to get something to eat?”
I give a subtle nod with my hands clasped in front of me.
“Then let’s do it,” he says. “This afternoon calls for an extra shot of espresso in my cappuccino.”
A glass case at the end of the counter catches my eye. It’s filled with artistically decorated cakes, tarts, éclairs, and a large assortment of macarons. Yum . I forgot about those. Why can’t my stomach be big enough to sample everything?
Leo greets someone behind the counter. Does he like to socialize this much? Doesn’t his mouth get dry? Apparently, the girl’s name is Laureen, and her flirty giggles irk me somehow. Jealous, Olive? I ignore myself. Refusing to check what she looks like, I continue drooling over the confections on display.
Seconds later, Leo comes back to me. He’s close enough that his body heat seeps into mine, warming me up. It’s been a while since I’ve been this close to a man. A light cloud of his enticing cologne catches my attention. It exudes a unique softness and warmth with a dab of spice. His shoulder grazes mine, inducing an unexpected, heavenly spark. We split apart, chuckling.
“Sorry. I’ve been full of static today. My hair alone could provide enough electricity to run this place.”
“Don’t I know it?” he comments, pointing at his own wild hair. “So, what do you think? Find something you want to try?”
“Everything looks tempting,” I say, then turn around to admire the room. “I love it here.”
Leo’s face beams once again, and he nods. “Thanks. It took a lot of convincing and planning. I’ve spent more time than I can count in cafés like this during my travels, and I thought it’d be a great addition for the hotel.” Hmm. During his travels. Business or pleasure? “My brother took the lead, and the rest followed.”
“The one who grunted in the hallway?”
“You heard that, huh?”
“I wasn’t sure. But your reaction gave it away.”
“Yep, it’s him. An old friend of his owns a construction company, and he agreed to build it since everything was shut down during the beginning of the pandemic. You know what it was like then.”
“Oh, I remember.” Too well. It shattered my life. It’s what made me abandon Los Angeles and move back home. I shiver and lock the memories of death back into their little box to make them disappear.
“This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view. All the natural light through the glass roof and the windows…” Leo peers outside for a moment. “You can’t really appreciate it now, but wait till tomorrow. I think the weather’s supposed to be better. You’ll see. There’s an outdoor terrace too, for the warmer months.”
“Hey, Leo! Are you here for your daily sugar intake? It’s late for you.” Someone with a smooth French accent approaches us from behind. It fits perfectly with the atmosphere. Leo and I turn to face a stylishly dressed, handsome silver fox whose black button-down shirt is dusted with flour. He does a double take when he sees Leo, then guffaws, holding his stomach. “What the hell is on your lip?”
Leo side-eyes me as he smooths the mustache, then looks at the goofy man.
“Well, I didn’t miss that snarky attitude of yours while you were away in France, Louis. Your accent got worse, I can hardly understand you.” With a wide grin, he gives the man a bear hug. “Good to see you, old man. Welcome back. Happy New Year.”
The man squeezes him and lifts him off the ground. Their greeting is almost like a father and son. It’s sweet to witness. It makes me miss my dad more because he gave me the biggest and tightest hugs—sometimes I could hardly breathe. But those good times are out of reach and long gone.
“Please tell me that caterpillar is fake. It’s so not you!” he laughs again, and I join in.
Leo strokes it and huffs. “Come on, it’s not that bad.” He turns to me and his gaze lingers, searching my face. “Is it?”
I raise my hands in mock surrender and utter, “I plead the fifth.”
Leo braces his hands on his hips. “Seriously?”
Damn. Now I feel bad. “Sorry. I’m not a fan of facial hair.”
“Listen to her. She knows what she’s talking about,” the silver fox says, then winks at me.
I’m getting a kick out of this show. I left my boring life behind to get out of my funk, and now I’m talking about mustaches, of all things. My face hurts from smiling so much.
Leo crosses his arms over his chest. “Well, I’m not a fan either. I actually hate it. I cringe every time I look in a mirror. I lost a bet to Tonya and Sully. A stupid challenge I found on TikTok. I’m not getting into it right now. It’s too embarrassing because I really thought I’d win. But—when the clock strikes twelve tonight, it’s coming off. A little scruff is okay, but full beards or mustaches...no thanks.”
Phew . Only temporary. I can’t wait to see his face without it. Then again, Leo with a five o’clock shadow emphasizing his perfect jawline would probably make me combust. Stop fantasizing! I scratch my neck and discreetly clear my throat. Unfortunately it grabs the older man’s attention anyway.
“We’re being rude, Leo. Who is this lovely lady?” he purrs. “New girlfriend? I haven’t seen her here before.”
If my face wasn’t already bright red, I’m sure it is now. I want to crawl out of the room. Where’s the closest emergency exit when I need one?
We both respond, “No.” But, without a second passing, Leo continues. “Louis, this is Olive. She’s a guest. Her room isn’t ready, and I thought I’d introduce her to some of your specialties.”
“Ooh. That’s very nice of you to accompany your guests. Is that a new service?” He elbows Leo playfully. Leo’s cheeks turn a sweet shade of pink. Is he really blushing? I don’t see him as the type to be easily embarrassed.
A customer approaches the counter we’re partially blocking. I tap Leo’s arm and point behind him. Leo apologizes to the person, then maneuvers us to the side, away from traffic.
Louis isn’t deterred. “Hi, Olive,” he says. “It’s nice to meet you. Welcome to the Café Charmant. I hope you have a sweet tooth.” If I were into older men, I’d be putty in his hands because of his accent and ocean-blue eyes. He offers me his hand, and I shake it gently. So this is what happens when I’m around cheerful people in a unique setting. I should’ve tried this sooner.
“Leo can’t seem to stop talking about your tarts,” I inform him.
“You’re already on a first-name basis. Interesting.” There’s an undeniable twinkle in his eye.
“Louis,” Leo warns with a light growl.
Louis ignores him. “He sure does love it here. That’s why he spends hours at the gym.”
Leo slaps him in the gut with the back of his hand. “Speak for yourself, old man. You’re there just as much as I am.”
Nodding with a grin, he grasps Leo’s shoulder. “This guy’s the reason I work here. He’s the best man I know. After spending a couple days here, you’ll understand why.”
I’m catching on, and it’s only been, what, an hour? I’ve lost track of time.
“All right. If you are trying to embarrass me, it’s not working,” Leo jokes, pushing Louis toward the end of the counter. “Don’t you have some cakes to bake back there for the party tonight or something?”
“Okay. I’m going.” Then he stops and turns around. “But first—how long will you be here this time?”
“You’ll see me plenty. I have two more weeks to annoy you and steal food. Now let us order something.”
Louis lets out a hearty laugh again.
Two more weeks. Interesting. I wonder what else he does.
“He’s funny,” I say.
“He’s always like that.” Leo takes a deep breath and places his hands on the counter. “Olive, I’m sorry about the constant interruptions. Your room is probably ready, and I’ve taken up too much of your time. Do you still want to order something? You can take it to your room if you want, and I’ll get out of your staticky hair.” He plays with me, but I know he’s serious too. Not about my hair, of course.
I should go to my room, but why? What’s there waiting for me? Nothing and nobody. And I don’t want the time with him to end, and I’m starving. I don’t feel lonely either, not having the chance to be since Leo appeared.
“I really do need to eat something, and there’s no time pressure.”
“Cool. Then let’s finally order so we can take a sea?—”
“Leo, there you are,” someone else calls out behind us. Jeez, he’s popular.
“Or not. It’s never ending,” he mumbles, pinching the bridge of his nose.
I turn to find perhaps the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. Tall and thin, with big green eyes and curly auburn hair. It’s pulled up in a messy bun with a pencil sticking out of it. Loosened ringlets dangle around her face and neck. Basically the opposite of me. “I finally tracked you down. I haven’t seen you all day. Have you been hiding from me?”
She waves to Louis behind the counter, then calls out to him, “Everything ready for tonight?”
“Oui. What kind of question is that? I have a rep to protect.”
She blows him a kiss. “Thanks. Just double-checking.” He winks at her, then turns away.
The redhead glances at me, then back to Leo. I can’t read her expression. “Sorry to interrupt,” she says.
Leo gives her a quick hug, more like a friendly one, not romantic. Something like jealousy creeps in again, which is absurd. Or is it envy? I’ll stick with envy because who wouldn’t want to look like her? In case I have to shake her hand too, I nonchalantly wipe my hands on my jeans. Or better yet, it’s time to order a coffee. I turn toward the counter, and of course, no one is there. I pretend to read the menu that’s on the wall opposite me as I eavesdrop.
Leo continues. “Nope, not hiding. Several of your demanding party guests kept me busy with their special requests,” he jabs, humor clear in his voice.
I take a quick glance over my shoulder to see their interaction.
She cocks her hip. “You’re such a liar.”
“Maybe, maybe not. You could’ve called me if you needed something. Or did you want to see my handsome face?”
“Right.” She rolls her eyes. “I was missing that fiesta fuzz too much.”
Fiesta fuzz ? I swallow my laugh and pull my eyes away before I draw attention to myself.
He scoffs. “Come on. Admit it. You want Sam to grow one. It adds character.”
“Not on your life,” she declares. “Anyway, just to confirm again, you aren’t bringing anyone to the party tonight, correct? Bethany asked to sit next to you.”
Who’s Bethany, and why do I care? My nosiness makes me take a casual mini step closer along the counter to hear them better.
“I know she’s your friend, but no. Not interested. Sorry, but not sorry.”
Relief washes over me, which again is fucking absurd. I want to peek at them to see her face, but it’d be too obvious that I’m listening in.
Then Leo’s voice changes as he adds, “Ya know what? Leave an empty seat next to me— not for Bethany. Who knows what might happen between now and midnight.”
How does someone like him not have a date?
“Whatever you say, funny guy. Gotta go. I’m off to see your sister. See you tonight.”
Melancholy washes over me. Where is the damn barista? I’m so out of place here while they talk about a party I’m not invited to and a woman who’s interested in Leo. While they’re partying tonight, celebrating the new year, I’ll be in my room watching TV. Or sleeping before the clock strikes twelve.
“I’m back, Olive,” Leo says from behind me.
I take a deep breath, slip on my happy face, and turn around. Oof. I collide with Leo’s hard chest. When did he get this close? And why? He stumbles back and grabs my arms to balance us.
“I’m sorry. Did I hurt you?” His anxious gaze sweeps over my face.
I rub my nose. “Not really. It was more of a shock than anything else. I’m fine.”
Leo places his hands on his hips and shakes his head. “Olive, I’m really sorry.” His phone rings in his pocket, and he takes it out, checking the screen. “Damn it. I need to take this call.” He groans. “Please order whatever you want. It’s on the house since I keep making you wait. I really thought it’d be a lot quieter.”
I wave him off. “No problem. Do what you have to do. I’m fine.” He doesn’t owe me anything. He gives me a thumbs-up, then quickly mentions to the barista that I don’t have to pay. Of course she shows up now.
Along with a large cappuccino, I order a lemon tart and a chocolate macaron. “You can take a seat wherever you want. I’ll bring your order to you,” the barista says. I make my way over to a table in the corner.
A minute later, Leo returns. “Olive, I hate to say this, but I need to get back to the front desk. There are some fires to put out. Do you want to come back with me to see if your room is ready? I’m sure it is.”
As he says this, my order arrives. I thank the woman, and she leaves.
“My room can wait. I’m going to enjoy this first.” My stomach rumbles in anticipation.
“Good. Either I’ll come by with your key or Donna will. Or come to the front desk when you’re done. Okay?” He’s babbling, almost like it physically pains him to leave me.
“Leo, go. You’re working. No need to babysit me.”
He frowns. “That’s not what I’m doing. I really wanted to sit with you. Hopefully, we’ll get a chance some other time or later.” His phone rings again, and he shuffles backward toward the door, almost tripping over a chair. “Okay, gotta go before someone comes looking for me. I really don’t want that.” He spins around and is out the door in a flash.
I deflate in my chair. From the second I arrived at this hotel, it’s been nonstop. What an unexpected and perfect distraction. To prevent myself from crashing, I take a few sips of my cappuccino, then pull out my AirPods, a little notebook, and a pen from my handbag. Searching Spotify, I click a favorite movie soundtrack.
Opening to the first blank page of the notebook, I scrawl, New Year Resolutions .
It’s time to make some changes.