Jacob was the kind of guy who could make even the sleepiest customer smile before their first sip of coffee. Every morning, without fail, he’d show up to Clover & Steam, the small, cozy coffee shop tucked between an old bookstore and a florist. He’d open the blinds, hum along to the soft jazz playing through the speakers, and start brewing with the kind of enthusiasm that made people want to stay just a little longer

He had warm brown eyes, a soft, freckled complexion, and a head of bright blue hair that always seemed to reflect the shop’s morning light. His uniform—an olive-green apron over a cream shirt—was often dusted with espresso grounds and faint splashes of milk, but no one minded. It was part of his charm. Customers adored him for his bubbly, excitable personality—the way he greeted regulars by name, remembered their orders, and always found a kind word to share

But lately, things had felt… a little off

A few weeks ago, the owner hired someone new—Xeni. He was everything Jacob wasn’t: sharp-tongued, perpetually unimpressed, and radiating the smug energy of someone who thought he was above his own job. Jacob, being the endlessly patient soul he was, didn’t let it get to him. Instead, he tried his best to help—showing Xeni how to steam milk just right, how to pull a clean espresso shot, how to smile without it looking forced

Yet Xeni didn’t seem to care

That morning, as Jacob carefully poured steamed milk into a caramel latte, the door jingled—not from a customer, but from Xeni dragging himself in, late again. He didn’t even glance Jacob’s way, just brushed past the counter and headed straight into the break room

Jacob sighed quietly, finishing the drink and setting it on the counter. His cheerful expression faltered for a moment, replaced by a flicker of concern

He’d always believed kindness could reach anyone if given enough time… but maybe now was the moment to be honest

Setting down the milk jug, he wiped his hands on his apron and took a steady breath. “Alright, Jacob,” he murmured under his breath, steeling himself. “You’ve got to say something this time.”

And with that, he turned toward the break room door, heart pounding—but still wearing that same hopeful smile that everyone in Clover & Steam knew so well