“Do the dishes, you little rat. Alice is still on her break but it’s pretty dead out there so I’m gonna go.”

Out the front of Down Town Caf, Bette Porter climbed out of a taxi, probably a little over dressed than what was necessary for such a waitressing job. The newest season’s black mini skirt hugging her thighs and her off the shoulder yellow sweater was going to turn heads. How could she not get this job? She still hadn’t taken too well to the high pony tail which was apparently in vogue. Bette preferred her hair down, to curl past her shoulders. She lifted a black handbag onto her arm and paused at the sign over the door. This is it, the caf. And such a little caf too. How did you end up here Porter? The same way you end up anywhere. Take a huge breath. Time to go in and start it all over again.

Bette turned the ***** and took her first step inside. At the same time, Tina was making her way out, walking backwards with her attention on her friends in the kitchen.

“So I’ll see you lot tomorrow. Stay out of trouble Jamie!”

Alice waved, grinning from ear to ear. “But she likes trouble!”

Assuming the young woman was going to move, Bette stayed in the doorway, holding it open. Out of habit, Tina’s body made the blind turn, placing her palm out to push the door. Instead, her hand touched more than expected. There was a slight pause whilst Tina had realised what she’d done. Her eyes grew wide with horror. Embarrassed beyond her wildest dreams, she scrambled for words.

“Oh my gosh, I am so sorry.”

“It’s fine, I-”

“I can’t believe how clumsy I am. I’m so terribly sorry. Please excuse me.” Her words acting as a diversion, Tina slipped out of the doorway. A brisk walk down the street developed into a drastic hurried dash. Bette popped her head out to witness the girl’s bizarre escape from humiliation.

“Hello. What can I get you?” Jamie’s genuine smile was masking the snigger waiting to burst out.

“Hi, I’m here to see Martha Stewart.” She stole another look in the direction of Tina’s flight. “Who was that girl I bumped into?”