Home (It's Where You Are)

chapter 9: marius's denial

chapter 9: marius's denial

~marius~

       I don't know how long I've been scrolling through all the job offerings, but I've yet to find one I'm qualified for. I thought that working at my parents' company for six years would be good enough experience, but apparently not.

       And it's not just because I think I'm not qualified. I've applied to some jobs and don't even make it to the interview portion. 

       I want to get a new job as soon as possible, but at least I have a lot of money in my savings account. I've always been a saver, not so much as a spender. Living with my parents up until I moved out also allowed me to save money I otherwise would have had to spend on rent and groceries.

       I sigh heavily, leaning back in the cafe chair. Maybe I would learn about job openings when I go back to school to complete my Master's. In the past, my professors would tell us about job openings from businesses they know about, but I never had to take it since I worked for my parents.

       I wish I didn't depend on them for so long.

       Winston walks over, bringing me a fresh cup of coffee. I smile at him. "Thank you. This is honestly some of the best coffee I've ever had."

       Winston smiles back at me. "Well, I'm glad to hear that. All my wife and I want out of this cafe is to serve food and drinks people love. Let me know if you need anything else." He heads back to the cafe's counter.

       Winston and Cecelia have definitely succeeded when it comes to serving beloved food and drinks. Until I learn how to properly cook, I find myself eating my meals here most days. I can't help it. The food and drinks are so food.

       Besides, it's a calming atmosphere to either read or do some job searching. I don't mind doing all that in my house, but I'd rather not stay at home all day. I like going out in the world to do things.

       The door to the cafe opens, and in walks Fawn, leading a pregnant woman. His... girlfriend? Fiance, maybe? I know it's probably not his wife since he doesn't wear a wedding ring. Not that I've paid attention to that kind of detail.

       I mentally slap myself. Leave it alone, Marius. There's no reason for you to be curious about the relationship. I'm not attracted to Fawn in any way, shape, or form. I'm straight. One hundred-percent straight.

       Cecelia and Winston both smile at Fawn and the woman when they see them. "Oh, Alyssa!" Cecelia says happily. "How have you been doing?"

       Alyssa smiles back at them. "I'm good. I've just been sore. That's why Fawn and I are here early. We were walking around, but I just needed to sit down." She places her hands on her belly. "And I just want this little guy to come out already. Just a few weeks left."

       "I bet you're excited," Cecelia says.

       "Excited. Nervous. A whole bunch of emotions. Oh, can I get a glass of water?"

       "Of course." 

       I try not to listen in on the conversations anymore since it's none of my business, and because I feel a slight sting in my heart. I ignore the feeling and go back to trying to find a job opening that I am qualified for.

       Eventually, the cafe door opens and this time, three people walk in; two men and one woman. I recognize one of the men as my landlord Brent, actually. I've seemed to have lucked out getting him as my landlord because from the times I've talked to him, he's a nice person.