Welcome to Stories from Among the Stars.

You're listening to Legends and Lautees by Travis Baldry.

15.

God's what a difference, said Tandry.

Cao's auto-circulator twirled lazily above them, and the cool down draft was indeed a

blessed relief.

Thimble appeared to appreciate it just as much, if not more.

Viv wasn't even sure if the Ratkin could sweat.

He'd probably suffered more than any of them, especially working near the stove, although

he'd never complained.

Some morning regulars bemoaned the previous closure, but any grumbles were outweighed by their

interest in the new nomish gadget stirring the air.

Fencing around, Viv decided that she was extremely proud of the shop's interior.

It felt modern and forward-thinking, but also cosy and welcoming.

The combined aromas of hot cinnamon, ground coffee, and sweet cardamom and toxicated

her, and as she brood and smiled and served and chatted, a deep contentment welled

up.

It was a glowing warmth she'd never experienced before, and she liked it.

She liked it a great deal.

A look around at the regulars confirmed they felt it, too, and yet from behind the

counter there was a sweetness she alone experienced, because this shop is mine, she thought.

She caught Tandry slipping into a smile beside her, or maybe it's ours.

...