Chapter 11 - 8: A Day at the Victoria Maid Café
Ellen had experienced many things while working with Victoria Housekeeping Co., but being forced into a maid outfit and waiting tables was not something she had anticipated. Yet here she was, standing in the middle of the bustling Victoria Maid Café, a frilly apron tied around her waist and Sharkboo perched smugly on her shoulder.
"This is ridiculous," Ellen muttered, adjusting the bow of her uniform as Von Lycaon walked past, impeccably dressed in his supervisory attire.
"Nonsense," Von Lycaon replied, his voice dripping with authority and charm. "The Victoria Maid Café is a vital extension of our operations, and today, we're all pitching in. Consider it a lesson in adaptability."
Ellen sighed but didn't argue further. The café was packed, and the cheerful chatter of customers blended with the clinking of dishes and the occasional whir of Sharkboo zipping around to deliver small orders.
Rina floated gracefully across the café, her every movement exuding elegance as she took orders with a smile that seemed to charm even the most irritable patrons. "Table six needs their tea refreshed," she said to Ellen in passing, her Bangboo, Anastella and Drusilla, trailing behind her and chattering in tandem about dessert pairings.
"Got it," Ellen replied through gritted teeth, balancing a tray laden with pastries. As she approached the table, a customer tried to strike up a conversation.
"Hey, sweetheart, you free after your shift?" the man asked with a wink.
Ellen's deadpan glare could have frozen the entire café. "No. Next question?"
Rina swooped in just in time, smoothly deflecting the awkward moment. "Ah, my colleague is very focused on her work. Let's not distract her, shall we?" she said with a sweet but firm tone. Ellen shot her a grateful look before retreating to the kitchen.