I sighed and sat the cup down. “I’ll be honest, Jorge, I don’t have any real experience working anywhere. The closest I’ve come to a real job was the part-time one I had at Denny’s, and then there was a school car wash fundraiser I ran. I managed to make more money with my wet T-shirt than I did cleaning cars, so I’m not sure that counts. I’m also great if you want something painted because I’ve done a few murals for money.”

I picked up one of the tube-styled sugar packs and spun it between my fingers as I continued to speak. “You’re right, though. I’m attending Quantico. And it’s kind of frowned upon to work while you’re attending school, but I’m looking to branch out and do more than school all day and workout and study all night. I’ll go insane with only those activities. This must sound ridiculous, but the moral of that really long story is that I sincerely want this job.”

“You say you want to branch out. What exactly does that mean, and why my coffee shop?”

I fidgeted in my seat and looked around as if my mother had ears everywhere and might hear me say this. With her, anything was possible. “Attending Quantico has never been what I wanted, and although I’m dedicated to finishing the program, I don’t think I’ll make it as an agent.”

“Hmm, I’m not sure this is the right job for you to cut your teeth on, Darlin’. We are very busy all the time, so training someone that has no experience is a difficult task, and I can’t pay anywhere near the wage you’d probably be expecting.” Jorge said as he started to stand.

“How about if I work for free for a week as a trial? I learn fast, am efficient, and I’m good with people. Please, all I’m asking for is a shot. If you don’t think I can cut it after a week, then let me go, and if you think I can, then you can put me on the books.”

Jorge tapped his chin as he thought. “What time are you off school?”

“I made up a schedule,” I said and pulled out the paper with my available days and times out of my bag to hand over.

His eyes scanned over the month-long calendar. “Alright, I’ll give you a chance. I’ll see you at three tomorrow, and wear comfortable footwear and black pants. I’ll provide the top.”

A squeal was on the tip of my tongue, but I managed to hold it back. This would be the first time I’d have something that was completely mine, and the excitement was bubbling in my chest. “Thank you, Jorge. I promise you won’t regret this.”

“We’ll see about that, Darlin’. Toodles.”