The couple grumbled, angry unsoftened, but left the café in a storm of indignation.

  Isabella stood frozen; her head bowed so low her chin touched her chest. Guilt and humiliation burned through her. She whispered apologies again and again, to the couple, to the other customers, to her manager anyone who would hear her.

  Finally, when the café calmed down, Isabella turned to Mrs. Megan with a shaky voice. "I'm... I'm so sorry, ma'am. I know I ruined everything. Deduct it from my salary, please. I'll accept it. I promise it won't happen again."

  Mrs. Megan looked at her with tired eyes, her sigh heavy. "Isabella, what's going on with you tonight? You're one of my best girls, you never make mistakes like this." She softened, her voice turning almost maternal. "Listen, sweetheart, I won't touch your salary. If I take that away, how will you manage? But if something's troubling you... maybe I can help. Don't carry everything alone."

  Isabella blinked hard, fighting tears. She wanted to tell her, to pour out every weight crushing her chest. But the word Risk still echoed louder than her own heartbeat. Isabella thanked Mrs. Megan softly, her voice still trembling. "Thank you for being protective earlier, and... for not deducting my salary."

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  Mrs. Megan gave her a gentle, motherly smile. "Sweetheart, why don't you take a break for a while? Or maybe head home early today. Don't worry, I won't mind."

  Isabella looked at her with tired but pleading eyes. "Thank you, Mrs. Megan, but I think I'm okay. I don't want to take leave... I just need a moment to gather my mind."

  Mrs. Megan's tone softened even more. "Oh dear, it's okay. Take your time – and please, if something's bothering you, tell me. Maybe I can help, hmm?"

  Isabella nodded faintly. "I'll be fine," she said, though the words felt hollow.

  After a short break, she returned to work with quite determination. Every move was careful, every plate steady as if perfection could erase the mess she'd made earlier. Her coworkers occasionally asked if she was okay or is she needed help, but Isabella only smiled faintly and replied, "No, I'm fine. Thank you."

  By 10 p.m., her shift ended. She changed out of her uniform, folding it neatly, and slipped back into her morning clothes. Before leaving, she stopped by Mrs. Megan once more, whispering, "Thank you... and sorry again."

  Megan smiled wearily, waving her off. "Go home safe, dear."

  TO BE CONTINUED...