Work Text:
It’s a slow day in Java Hounds. Alben is looking out a window, lost in his thoughts with his head resting on his hand. Only the sound of the door at the entrance snaps Alben back to reality and into work mode. A multi-colored Blue Merle Australian Shepherd wearing a blue shawl walks in with a smile on her face.
Alben: “Hi there! Welcome to Java Hounds! What can I -” He cuts himself off as he realizes who has walked into his Café. His tail starts wagging really fast and smiles brightly as he runs from behind the counter over to the person, giving them a quick hug. “Calypso!”
Calypso laughs and hugs Alben back. “Hey Alben! It’s good to see you!”
Alben walks back behind the counter as Calypso sits down in one of the seats in front of it.
Alben: “So, what brings you here?”
Calypso: “I was in the area, so I thought I’d stop by for a drink and see you.”
Alben: “Well, the visit is quite a surprise. The business is always appreciated. By the way, how are things with Busker?”
Calypso: “Well… about that…”
Alben: “Huh?”
Calypso raises her right hand which sports a beautiful diamond engagement ring. Alben opens his mouth agape with surprise.
Alben: “Oh my gosh!! Congratulations Calypso! I’m so happy for you! This calls for a celebratory drink! How does Lotus tea sound?”
Calypso: “Aww, Thanks Alben. That sounds lovely.”
Alben starts preparing the tea for Calypso, starting by boiling some water. Meanwhile, Calypso looks down anxiously, capturing the attention of Alben.
Alben: “Something wrong, Calypso?”
Calypso: “Well… I’m just nervous about the wedding. What if I mess it up?”
Alben: “It’s normal to be anxious about one’s wedding, but with how much I know about you, trust me when I say that you won’t mess it up.” He grabs a cup and a small plate to put under it, pours hot water in it then puts a lotus tea bag in it and hands the cup to Calypso. “Here you are.”
Calypso: “Thanks Alben. It means a lot. Of course, you’re invited to the wedding.”
Alben, jokingly: “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Calypso chuckles.
Alben: “By the way, this tea is from Vietnam and holds special meaning. Wanna hear it?”
Calypso: “Sounds interesting. Sure.”
Alben: “Well, in Vietnam, Lotus tea symbolizes purity, beauty, and good fortune. So, in a way, this is my way of saying good fortune for your wedding and how I would describe you.”
Calypso smiles. “Thank you so much, Alben. You’re an amazing friend. This tea is very good! Quite refreshing.”
Alben: “Glad you like it.”
Alben and Calypso talk some more and eventually, Calypso finishes her tea and gets up to leave.
Calypso: “Well, this has been lovely, Alben. Thank you again for the kind words and well wishes.”
Alben: “No problem. Come back anytime! You’re always welcome.”
Calypso walks out the door while waving goodbye. Alben cleans the cup Calypso was using, his tail slowly wagging with him feeling thankful for having a friend like Calypso.