Chapter 80. For Permanence

DYLAN

Ted waited for my answer. He stayed on his seat, even when Jane asked him for his assistance with the troubled coffee machine. He only gave verbal instructions and he was back on the same seat.

Did he really mean it when he said he’s willing to listen to me as a friend today? Am I not a bother or something? I mean, he’s working.

“So, what is it? You can spill,” he said, taking a bite-sized croissant to his mouth. Unlike me, he didn’t use his butter.

I straightened my back. I don’t know how or where to start. To be openly vulnerable to someone is something I haven’t done before. Not even to Ashlene. I say stuff yes, but I’m a man. I think it’s normal for us to protect our masculinity and be more reserved than expressive.

“I don’t want to take much of your time, Ted. The shop needs you.”

He shook his head.

“Nah, they don’t. I have an assistant manager anyway. She’ll be here any minute now. I know she can handle all the chaos,” he said co