The bell jingled as the door swung open, signaling the arrival of a new customer who joined the growing line. Frankie, ever the creature of habit, strolled up to the register, his trusty Standard’s oil cap perched firmly on his head. His trademark smile spread across his face as he locked eyes with you, a silent understanding passing between you two. Over time, you had come to grow fond of each other, of this simple daily exchange.

For Frankie, the morning ritual was about more than just getting his coffee. It was about routine, about starting his day the right way—preferably with a strong cup of brew in hand, served by the one person who always got it just right. For you, it was a little different. Sure, the coffee was important, but so was the money. And boy, did Frankie pay well. His tips were always generous, never failing to put a little extra in your pocket, and over time, that simple transaction had turned into something almost comfortable. A friendship of sorts, if you could call it that. A bond built on coffee and cash. And really, who needed more than that?