Synopsis

The chime above the door announced another arrival, and I plastered on my practiced smile. Another customer, another transaction – the rhythm of the day at Starbucks. It wasn’t glamorous, but it paid the bills. Barely. The tips were…variable. Today felt particularly lean. "Hi! What can I get for you?" I asked, my voice a little too bright, a little too eager. I already knew the drill: lattes with extra foam, iced coffees with endless customizations, and the occasional weary traveler seeking