Chapter 1: A Moment of Reflection

Mikki savored the bittersweet notes of his afternoon mocha, feeling a wave of tranquility wash over him. The sounds of chatter, clinking teaspoons, and the gentle clatter of cups created a soothing symphony around him.

He set his mug down and reached for a bone-shaped biscuit. "Here you go, Luna," he said, offering it to his eager pup.

Luna, a sleek silver-furred Weimaraner, accepted her treat with a doggy grin, perfectly content to bask in the sun at Mikki's favorite spot in the Dog and Human café. As Mikki stroked her soft head, he noticed the words "Give a Little Happiness" cast in shadow across her paws from the café window—a simple yet profound reminder.

His gaze drifted to the street outside, where a man in a tattered coat came into view. The broken zipper of his rucksack let its contents spill out, and his shoes were in disrepair. It was evident that this man had been homeless for some time.

Upon entering the café, he exchanged a brief greeting with a Labrador at the door, but the dog's owner quickly pulled it away, visibly uncomfortable. It struck Mikki how dogs, unlike people, are unfazed by appearance or odor; if someone seeks friendship, a dog will always respond in kind—a lesson many humans could learn from.

"Can I get a coffee, please?" the homeless man asked as he approached the counter.

Jessie, the young server in her emerald green apron, smiled warmly. "Sure, that’ll be £2.50," she replied, as she prepared his drink.

The man started to sift through a handful of coins. As Jessie placed the coffee in front of him, a look of despair crossed his face. "T-thanks, but I can’t afford it," he stammered, his hand trembling with the coins.

"Oh, why not?" Jessie's smile faded, replaced with concern.

"I don’t have enough money."

Mikki, inspired by the café's motto, stood up. "Stay here, Luna," he instructed, and the Weimaraner wagged her tail obediently.

"Hey there, let me cover that coffee for you," Mikki said, approaching the counter. "And Jessie, could you also get him the largest BLT sub and a slice of cake?"

"Absolutely," Jessie replied, her smile returning.

"Thank you," the man said, his eyes glistening with gratitude as he extended a grimy hand. "That’s too generous of you."

Mikki shook his hand warmly. "No trouble at all. I’m Mikki; why don’t you join Luna and me for a bit?"

"I’m Bob. Thank you again."

"Anytime." Mikki settled the bill and guided Bob to his table. Luna welcomed him with a friendly sniff and a gentle nuzzle.

"You have a wonderful dog," Bob remarked, taking a large bite of his sandwich.

"Luna’s a rescue. She was found abandoned in the park with an injured leg. We've been inseparable for a year," Mikki said, sipping his coffee while giving Luna an affectionate scratch behind her ears. "What’s your story, Bob?"

Bob paused, chewing thoughtfully. "I’m just an old fool, that’s all," he replied, bitterness lacing his voice.

"I doubt that's true."

"It is. That blasted virus took my wife, and then it cost me my job. The rising living expenses have left me without a home."

"None of that is your fault. Blame the wealthy politicians who should be looking after everyone while they get richer," Mikki said, feeling a surge of indignation.

"That’s true, but I should’ve done more," Bob sighed, taking a sip of coffee.

"Where do you stay? What are your plans?" Mikki asked, giving Luna a thoughtful look as he pulled out his phone.

"I sleep on whichever bench is available in the park. Without a permanent address, I can’t even get social assistance."

Mikki nodded, now typing a message on his phone. "It’s such a tough cycle, isn’t it? You need a home to get help, yet you need help to find a home."

"Exactly," Bob said, finishing the last of his sandwich. "At least my stomach is happy now, thanks to you."

"My pleasure. Luna and I come here for lunch every Monday, so feel free to join us."

"I can’t repay you," Bob responded, sipping his coffee. "I don’t want to take advantage."

"Luna and I don’t want anything in return. It’s just nice to have company." Mikki finished his mocha, feeling content. "We’ll be here, so just join us."

Thus began a beautiful tradition.

The End

About Mason

Mason Bushell is a trained chef and bartender with a rich background in hospitality, having served the veterans of the Royal British Legion. Alongside his culinary skills, he has a passion for cake decorating and has supported many in planning their special occasions. An avid wildlife photographer, Mason enjoys exploring nature with his camera.

Books have always been a significant part of Mason's life, nurtured by his parents from an early age. He found joy in storytelling during English classes, often crafting lengthy narratives while his classmates submitted brief pages. Although he drifted from writing during his culinary studies, the illness of his grandmothers reignited his creative spark.

A chance encounter at work led him to discover a short story competition, igniting his imagination and introducing him to a captivating sleuth named Holly. This encounter inspired a seven-year journey into the world of mystery writing, even if Holly's series remains unpublished. Mason continues to write short stories, hoping to bring joy to his readers.

Discover more of Mason's storytelling here:

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