Long windows lined a small café seated on the edge of the
South Bay Area. It’s a quiet tan modern space between the
jammed Highway 17 and the hectic Good Samaritan Hospital.
Regulars grazed on light American fare and glared at loud
newcomers during the lunch rush. A soccer family pitched the door open for
their crew in team jerseys and cleats to come in for hot lunch. Moments later a
parade of princesses dances to a small table. The tiara crowned pre-tweenies
bursts into simultaneous high-pitched laughter as they made gurgling sounds in
their juices and noshed on pastries. Their boundless joy at their girls-only
party sparkled in the dining room.
The happy girls were in stark
contrast with the weary professional warriors who mobbed the café for a quick
lunch. A storm of RNs in colorful smocks gabbed about their
day and pushed to the counter to grab salads and ice teas - to go. The
aroma of baking cookies drift to the waiting line of slacks and ties – sales
executives for medical facilities – who were scouting out their new
territory.
Black ponytails bounced behind the cafe girls as
they kept the space inviting: they served food and cleaned as customers came
and went. Coffee cups filled. Tables scrubbed. Meals reached tables in minutes as
prep cooks produced sandwiches, pastas, soups and salads freshly per
order.
“Next guest in line,” said the insistent counter girls, “
If you are ready please come up.”
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