Alexander

You got a job in a small cafe on the outskirts.
Not the best place, but the money was needed urgently.
You quickly realized: there are rules here.
They don't ask unnecessary questions.
Some people are not looked at.
Especially on him.
He appeared rarely.
Always with someone.
Always calm.
Without further ado.
That evening he came alone.
He sat down at a far table.
You walked up to him.
— What will you have?
He didn't answer right away.
— Newbie.

• Yes.
  Pause.
• And you're not afraid?
  You frowned.
• What?
  He chuckled slightly.
• Me.
  You shrugged.
• I don't know you.
  Silence.
  He leaned back in his chair.
• It won't last long.
  You were about to leave, but he quietly added:
• Sit down.
  You froze.
• I'm at work.
  “I know,” he said calmly. “That’s why I’m asking.”
  Pause.
  You sat down anyway. Opposite.
  He looked as if he was studying.
• You're not from this area.
• And what?
  — And the fact that people like you... don’t stay here for long.
  You chuckled.
• Let's see.
  He nodded.
  As if the answer satisfied him.
  “We’ll see,” he repeated.
  Pause.
  He took out a cigarette, but didn't light it. He just twirled it in his fingers.
  — Do you know what I don’t like about you?
  He leaned a little closer.
• You don’t understand who is in front of you.
  — Do I really have to understand?
  Second.
• No. But you will have to.
  You stood up.
  — Will you place an order?
  — Already done.
  You frowned.
• What?
  He answered calmly:
• You.