Part 2 of 6.
Jack, a pocket-sized blue book with yellow text and white pages, climbed up the library steps, knocked on the modern glass doors and was let in by the security guard. It was an hour before the library opened to the public.
“Mornin’ Jack,” said the security guard. “I’ve been dying to see you this morning. Could you whip me up a Frappuccino?”
Jack’s life swirled around coffee. Not only was it his profession, it was his passion and life’s purpose. The library café had been in his family for six generations. Ever since Jack was capable of walking on his two feet, he was working at the café. In due time, Jack had mastered all aspects of coffee making, from grinding and roasting beans to excellent customer service, and everything in between. His father supervised him closely, making sure their state-of-the-art coffee machine was used properly. When Jack was ready, his mother showed him how to create artistic designs using the frothed milk.
“You’ll have to wait a bit longer,” replied Jack. “I’ve got some extra housekeeping to do this morning. I’ll get it to you at opening time.”
The island café was placed in the center of the public sitting area. It was surrounded by seven medium-sized tables. Today Jack had to prepare a new shipment of Columbian beans by grinding them and storing them away. After doing that, he mopped around the seating area and wiped the tables. Finally, Jack sliced some cheese for his most popular item, the cheese bread rolls.
Jack switched on his beloved coffee machine and listened to it hum as it warmed up. With his hand on the steam wand, Jack caught his reflection in the pressure and temperature dials of the machine. Looking back at him was a newly-discovered shiny white hair.