With the two containers secured in hand, Damien followed Mr. Lawson back into the main café.
By now, the last remaining customers had already left. The front door had been locked, and the OPEN sign had been switched off.
Near the counter, Emily was mopping the floor while James awkwardly helped stack a few chairs onto nearby tables.
Mr. Lawson chuckled.
“Looks like everyone has been put to work.”
James immediately set down the chair in his hands.
“I figured helping was better than just standing around and watching.”
The older man’s eyes twinkled with amusement.
“Well, thank you, young man. We appreciate the help.”
James smiled awkwardly and scratched the back of his head.
“Least I can do to make up for the rather persuasive phone call earlier.”
That earned a laugh from Mr. Lawso
