Quinn wiped the sweat from her forehead as she steamed milk for the umpteenth coffee of the morning. Her feet ached from standing since dawn, but she couldn't afford to rake a break. Not yet!.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, a constant comfort in her chaotic life. Quinn had worked at "The daily Grind" coffee shop for four years, ever since she dropped out of college to care for her younger sister, Karena.
As she handed a latte to a waiting customer, Quinn's mind wandered to Karena. Her sister was now in her senior year in high school, and Quinn had sacrificed her own education to ensure Karena had a better life. But sometimes, like today, Quinn wondered if it was all worth it.
Karena's behaviour was becoming worse and she kept getting constant calls from the school principal, the teachers and parents, and the whispered rumours among the neighbours all pointed to one thing: Karena was a bully.
Quinn's heart was heavy with concern yet she forced a smile onto her face as she greeted the next customer in line.
As Quinn expertly crafted another drink, her long, raven-black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of the night. Her bright blue eyes sparkled as she smiled at a regular customer, and her porcelain skin glowed with a warm, golden undertone. Her petite nose was slightly upturned, giving her an endearing pixie-like quality.
Despite her natural beauty, Quinn's style was understated. She favoured comfortable and practical clothing in muted colours, which allowed her to blend into the background. But today, a small, silver necklace with tiny crystal pendant peeked out from beneath her coffee stained apron, hinting a more feminine side.
As the morning rush subsided, Quinn took a brief moment to catch her breath. She leaned against the counter, her eyes scanning the cozy coffee shop. The aroma of freshly baked pastries wafted from the display case, mingling with the rich scent of the coffee. Quinn felt a sense of accomplishment wash over her as a small smile appeared on her lips. This might not be her dream job, but it was hers and she was determined to make the most out of it.
Quinn's thought turned to Karena,and her expression faltered. She worried about her sister's behavior, and the strain it put on their already fragile relationship. Quinn sighed and pushed her concerns aside and focused on the task at hand. She began moving with ease.
As she worked, Quinn's mind drifted to her own dreams, the ones she put on hold when her parents passed away. She longed to finish her education , to pursue a carrer in Science as her dream was to be a rocket scientist, but for now, that seemed like an impossible luxury.
"Hey Quinn,you're doing great today," said Tessy, her coworker and best friend. "We're slammed, but you're keeping up."
Tessy is a bubbly and energetic blonde with bright green eyes that sparkle with warmth. Her long, curly hair often escaped her ponytail, framing her heart-shaped face with loose tendrils. With a smile that can light up a room and an infectious laughter that puts everyone at ease.
Her outgoing personality was one of her beautiful perks, always offering sage advice which makes her a valuable friend and despite her sunny disposition she has a mischievous streak and loves to tease Quinn good-naturedly.