Work Text:
It’s a quiet day in Java Hounds. Alben is drying some mugs and cups that were recently washed. The doors at the entrance open, and a female Red Heeler steps into the Café. She sports various cream-colored spots on her body as well as a brown patch on the left side of her face. She is also obviously pregnant.
Alben: “Hello there, Ma’am. Welcome to Java Hounds! My name is Alben. How are you this fine day?”
???: “Nice to meet you, Alben. My name is Chilli. I’m…not doing all that well honestly.”
Alben: “I’m sorry to hear that. If you want to talk, I’m willing to lend an ear.”
Chilli looks at Alben and smiles. “I’d appreciate that, actually. Thank you, Alben.”
Alben: “Happy to help. But first, what can I get ya?”
Chilli: “I’ll have some Saffron tea with some lemon and a little bit of honey.”
Alben nods and starts filling a tea pot with water. Once it’s almost full, he stops the water and puts the pot on a burner to boil.
Alben: “Well, while we wait for the water for boil, how about we start?”
Chilli: “Sure. Well to start, I’ll explain my drink choice. Saffron tea was my mum’s favorite, so I’m getting it to honor her. She…died when I was young, and the anniversary of her death is coming up.” Chilli takes a deep breath to keep her composure.
Alben: “Oh my. Losing a mother young is hard to go through. I’m sorry.”
Chilli: “Thanks, I appreciate it. Anyway, as I’m sure you have noticed, I’m pregnant with my first child. The drink is also to calm my nerves about my pregnancy, given my history.”
The tea pot starts whistling, signaling that the water is boiling. Alben shuts off the burner. He grabs a cup and a small plate to put under it then pours the hot water in it. He then grabs a Saffron tea bag, places it in the cup of hot water to steep, and then grabs a lemon slice and a bottle of honey. He picks the items up and places them in front of Chilli.
Alben: “Here you go! Let it steep for a few minutes, or more, depending on how strong you like it. And here’s your lemon and honey, so you can put as much as you’d like. Anyway, what do you mean history? If you don’t mind me asking.
Chilli: “Thanks. So…this…isn’t my first pregnancy. A few years ago, I…was pregnant. But…I…” Chilli starts tearing up. “I…miscarried.”
Alben: “Oh my gosh. I’m so sorry.”
Chilli wipes her tears and regains her composure. “It’s alright. Anyway, I’m just anxious about this pregnancy going awry as well.” Chilli takes the tea bag out of the cup, pours some honey in the cup, and squeezes a little lemon juice in as well before stirring the tea and taking a sip. “Very refreshing and already helping to calm me down.”
Alben: “Very good. I wish you the best with your pregnancy.”
Chilli: “Thank you, Alben.”
Alben and Chilli talk some more, while Chilli slowly finishes her drink.
Chilli: “This was a lovely chat, Alben. Thanks for listening to my woes. What do I owe you for the tea?”
Alben: “No problem at all. As for the tea, it’s on the house.”
Chilli: “What?! Are you sure?”
Alben: “Yep. It’s the least I could do for someone going through a tough time.”
Chilli tears up a little. “Thank you so much, Alben. Can I hug you?”
Alben chuckles. “Of course.” He walks around the counter and approaches Chilli where she hugs him. After a little bit, they disconnect the hug.
Chilli: “I’ve been saying this a lot, but thank you so much, Alben. Really. I’ll be sure to come back.”
Alben: “It’s been my pleasure. Have a good rest of your day.”
Chilli waves and exits the Café.