Duncan poured steaming water over the coffee grounds, absorbing the rich aroma. It had been a calm day, as usual, at Stella’s Cafe. The jazzy, soothing melody playing in the background made it difficult to imagine the chaos of the outside world. Outside, people were rushing past, trying to escape the heat of the day, while inside the cafe it was cool and tranquil. Duncan was content with the tranquility, enjoying the quiet moments that his eclectic job offered him.

He glanced over at Stella, who was polishing the glass coffee pots. She carried herself like the queen of the cafe, and to some extent, she was. The unconventional nature of Stella’s Cafe was all due to her unique ideas and vision. At times, Duncan found her a bit eccentric, but he appreciated the offbeat little world she had created within those four walls.

As the door chimed, Duncan looked up to see a familiar face enter the cafe. He hadn’t seen Victoria in what felt like ages. She had been his close friend during their college days, but like many friendships, the responsibilities of life had managed to wedge them apart. He couldn’t help but smile when he saw her vibrant blue eyes and beaming smile studying the menu board.

“Victoria!” he greeted enthusiastically. She turned, her face lighting up even more upon recognizing him.

“Duncan! Long time no see!” replied Victoria, rushing towards the counter to give him a warm embrace, visibly eager to reconnect over a cup of coffee.

As the two friends caught up on the years they’d spent apart, Stella observed the interaction with a mischievous grin. Sensing an opportunity, she hustled over, her eyes alight with curiosity for the visitor.

“Stella, this is my old friend Victoria,” Duncan introduced, eager for the two most important women in his life to meet. Stella extended her hand, and Victoria gave it a firm shake. The glint in Stella’s eye did not go unnoticed by Duncan.

“And what can I get you, Victoria?” Stella asked, her voice dripping with honey.

“A cappuccino, please,” Victoria replied, eyeing the various pastries behind the counter.

As Victoria browsed, Stella turned to Duncan and whispered, “In the back, we have a special foot massage offer for loyal customers. How about you go on and give your dear friend a relaxing treat?”

Duncan’s face flushed crimson, and his eyes shot daggers at Stella. She knew exactly what she was doing: bringing up one of the more unusual aspects of his work to get under his skin.

“Victoria,” Duncan called, his voice tight and unsure, “Stella has just informed me that we have a special offer for today. Would you… would you like a complimentary foot massage with your coffee?”

Victoria raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. “A foot massage? That’s… unique. Why not? It’s been a long day, and I could use a little pampering.”

Duncan nodded stiffly, fighting to keep his composure in front of his old friend. He led her to a comfortable chair in one corner of the cafe, specifically designed for their unorthodox foot spa service. Victoria relaxed into the plush cushion, sighing with contentment.

He knelt on the floor, removing Victoria’s shoes and beginning the massage. Relief flooded him as his friend let out a sigh of satisfaction, making the situation feel less humiliating.

“Well, Duncan, I must say – this cafe of yours is truly a one-of-a-kind experience! You’ve really found your niche, haven’t you?”

Duncan chuckled nervously, noticing Stella smirking in the distance. “You have no idea, Victoria.”