As she walked home from work on that chilly Wednesday evening, Neon felt a sudden craving for something warm and comforting to drink. She had spent the day chasing after energetic toddlers and helping with lessons, and a cup of coffee or tea sounded like just the thing to unwind.
As she turned the corner onto Constantine Road, Neon's eyes landed on a small coffee shop she had never noticed before. The sign above the door read "Max's Coffee Corner," and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted out onto the sidewalk, enticing her to come inside.
Neon pushed open the door and stepped into the cozy shop. The interior was warm and inviting, with comfortable-looking armchairs and small tables scattered about. Soft music played in the background, and the barista, a friendly-looking young woman with a warm smile, greeted her from behind the counter.
"Hi there! Welcome to Max's Coffee Corner. What can I get started for you?" she asked, eyeing Neon's tired expression. Neon smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "Just a coffee, please," she replied. "Something strong and comforting."
As the barista expertly crafted Neon's coffee, she asked, "So, where in the Caribbean are you from?" Neon smiled, happy to share her roots. "I'm from Jamaica," she replied, her accent thick and rich. The barista's eyes lit up. "I love Jamaica! I've always wanted to visit. What brought you here to Canada?" Neon briefly shared her story, and the barista listened intently.
Just then, Nequealia, who had been quietly observing the conversation, piped up in her high-pitched voice, "Mommy, Mommy! Can I have the chocolate blueberry sandwich, please?" Neon chuckled and nodded. "Of course, sweetie. That sounds like a yummy treat." The barista smiled and asked, "Would you like that toasted or untoasted, little one?" Nequealia thought for a moment before responding, "Toasted, please!
Neon and Nequealia made their way upstairs, their orders in hand, and found a cozy seat beside a small fish pond. The sound of gently bubbling water and the soft glow of the pond's lights created a peaceful atmosphere, and Neon felt her tension melt away. Nequealia, delighted with her toasted chocolate blueberry sandwich, took a big bite and closed her eyes in bliss.
As Nequealia savored her sandwich, she suddenly looked up and whispered to Neon, "Mommy, Mommy! Look!" She nodded discreetly towards a tall, handsome man sitting across the room. Neon followed her gaze and smiled when she saw the man, Maxwell, who was indeed very good-looking. Nequealia whispered, "He looks like the TikTok boys!" Neon chuckled and gently reminded her, "Nequealia, sweetie, please don't stare at people. It's polite to respect their space." Nequealia looked down, her cheeks flushing slightly, but she couldn't help sneaking another peek at Maxwell.
Maxwell Choi, the owner of Max's Coffee Corner, rose from his seat to greet the new community members. He smiled warmly and extended his hand in welcome. As he approached Neon and Nequealia, his eyes met Neon's, and he felt an unexpected jolt of attraction. He couldn't help but stare, taking in the beauty of her bright smile, her radiant skin, and her sparkling eyes.
Neon, oblivious to the effect she had on Maxwell, smiled politely and shook his hand. "Hello, thank you for the warm welcome," she said, her Jamaican accent music to Maxwell's ears. Maxwell, still entranced, struggled to find his voice. "Welcome to Max's Coffee Corner...I'm Maxwell," he stuttered, his eyes never leaving Neon's face.
Nequealia, sensing the awkwardness, giggled and tugged on her mom's hand. "Mommy, Mommy, can we go back to our seat now?" Neon smiled and nodded, grateful for the distraction. "Yes, sweetie, let's go back to our seat." As they walked away, Maxwell couldn't help but watch Neon, feeling an inexplicable connection to this beautiful stranger.
As Neon finished her me and left the MCC she made a 30 minutes walk to her apartment.
Neon trudged wearily through the front door of her apartment, exhausted from her long day. She was looking forward to a peaceful evening at home with Nequealia. As soon as she closed the door behind her, she began to strip off her clothes, eager to shed the stresses of the day.
"Mommy's going to sleep, sweetie," Neon announced, collapsing onto the bed. "Please leave Mommy alone for a bit." Nequealia, however, was not having it. She stood beside the bed, looking up at her mom with a concerned expression.
"But Mommy, you need to shower first," Nequealia insisted, tugging on Neon's hand. "You smell like coffee and sweat." Neon chuckled, despite her fatigue. "Okay, okay, little one. Mommy will shower in a minute."