Two eventful weeks passed ever since I started working at Ruben's restaurant.
I was able to earn an adequate and satisfying amount of money, which fulfilled one of my goals. The other one, on the other hand, is going steady at least.
I still haven't found out what I want to take as an occupation, but I was able to gain some clues during the past days.
"Forget about talents! Just think of the things you want to do. That can help you find one," was what Madeline told me.
Since I was too disheartened by the fact that I had no impressive ability in particular, I completely ignored that other option.
Mother used to tell me that when there's Plan A, there's surely Plan B. Sol also said something alike – about feeling as if you aren't working when you're doing what you like, that is.
With these in mind, I decided to conduct an observation and self-assessment as I went through my daily undertaking in the eatery.
I began going around the diner, observing different types of people, and waiting for something to pique my interest.
There's one unforgettable occasion when a group of entertainers came to eat. They're still in their costumes when they entered, so they really stood out that time. I was also momentarily distracted by their eye-catching headdresses, sparkly ornaments, and striking body adornments, and with such an ostentatious display, they left quite a lasting impression on me.
Then again, I'm but a mere teenager who has some kind of inclination on mundane things such as looks and apparels. I know style when I see one.
On the other hand, there's also the time when a little girl got her dress dirtied with orange juice.
As she wailed after getting her clothes ruined, I thought of something to hide the stain and prevent them from spreading. I decided to use a few flowers that I happened to see around the counter and decorate the stained spot with them.
Little girls are fond of this kind of stuff so the child was overjoyed when I did that. Ruben was glad that I came to rescue since she could've actually turned the whole eatery upside down if she continued to howl and weep like that any longer. On my end, I just really wanted to help.
After these events, I somehow got an idea of what I want to do, though there's still no final decision at this point.
I thought that I also wanted to enter the world of entertainment, but I recalled that I don't have any particular talent at this field. My dancing is simply otherworldly while my singing used to make Mother's ears bleed, and when I try to act, I'd only end up all stiff and awkward.
Another guess is to be someone who takes care of children, but then, I realize that I'll eventually do that when I become a mother. I also don't think I'll be a good role model for them since I can also be pretty childish when I want to.
"But it's okay! I'll just wait a little bit more!"
With that, I went to start a new day at the restaurant.
As soon as I get there, I'm greeted by the same rowdy crowd and lively atmosphere that I eventually came to look forward to everyday. Commoners and the middle class alike would frequent the diner since it's quite a popular one here in downtown.
With how packed the place is, it just goes without saying that business around here is flourishing as usual.
"Get moving, little lady!"
Someone suddenly pushes me from behind and sends me almost stumbling.
Swivelling my head around in flummox, I find two strident men making their way to the bar's counter. These jerks didn't even apologize and just went on striding over there like drunkards.
As I eye them with disdain, eyebrows furrowed in annoyance, something about them caught my attention.
For unknown reasons, they're wearing ragged, old clothes despite carrying large pouches, which I assume are their money.
"Geez, before going out to drink, buy some decent clothes, at least," I grumbled underneath my breath.
Huffing, I just decided to proceed with my routine and busy myself, eventually forgetting the incident.
A moment later, however, I find myself regretting not reporting them to Ruben. I only looked away for a while, but now, one of them is suddenly picking a fight with one of our waiters.
"What kind of lousy service is this?! You're all good-for-nothings!" he hollered, disrupting everyone's peaceful meals.
Fortunately, Ruben is there to instantly respond to the scene, though the man seems to be not backing down.
Peeved at his troublesome pugnaciousness, I can't help but wish I could turn back time and teach him a lesson. As I continue watching the commotion while trying to come up with something to shut the guy up, my eyes then stray to a suspicious figure in the corner.
It's the man who came in together with this punk. He's currently snooping around a table of four, almost like he's sneaking.
Since everybody's attention is on the uproar at the counter, nobody notices him quietly reaching for something from a female customer. That's when everything finally pieced together.
"Mercenaries…!" I thought out loud, horrified.
Not leaving any room for second thoughts, I grab a small knife from a table nearby before making a dash towards the robber.
As soon as our eyes meet, I bust him out before everyone there, letting all hell break loose in order to alert the others. There's no use staying silent if it means he'll just get away.
"Thief! There's a thief!"
Everybody turns to look at this new clamor, but by then, the mercenary already has a lavish-looking briefcase and is about to retreat. I pick up my pace and sprint all the way to the doorway, blocking the only possible escape route at the moment.
Since the others are already aware of his presence, the windows are all hurdled at this point.
"You blasted wench!" he snarled before drawing out a dagger.
In any case, this appears to be an unequal fight – the guy's a sure win since he has the physique to bring me down. There's an overwhelming difference between a man and woman's strength, after all.
But the thing is, I'm not that naïve. I didn't run after him just to get swept off of my feet.
First thing's first, I have to wait for him to make a move. I must be wary of his actions.
Then, as soon as he lunges his weapon towards my direction, I instantly dodge it and squat down. He seems to be fazed, so I use that opportunity to stretch out my leg and trip him up, causing him to topple over and crash on the floor.
In a swift motion, I seize his arms from behind and sit on his back.
"Surrender already," I taunted, threatening him with the knife.
At this, the robber whimpers like a toddler and eventually gives in, figure slumping in defeat. I then heave a sigh of relief but still didn't loosen my grip.
That's until an applause breaks out all of the sudden, consequently perplexing me. As I tilt my head up, I find everyone at the restaurant watching us while clapping, including Ruben and the other staff.
Stupefied, all I can do at that moment is stare back at them.