Snippet #2294951

"A friend." He replied casually, not too startled by his brother's sudden appearance for someone was due to come in around this hour. James wasn't a fan of his powers, however useful it was in burying their secrets, particularly when it came to using it on those close to him. Despite some popularity, which was expected by being a Paterson, he had few friends and fewer he trusted. The less he had to change their minds the better, for who knows what he could do with a slip of a tongue. Crossing that moral threshold was all too easy, he had learned that the hard way.

Disliking the situation, what James found made it worse was that someone had heard the resolution. He preferred keeping even this from his family. After all, he had cleaned up their messes before and none were the wiser, why start now. Behind them, came a voice, the familiar sheepish tone of Eli. After his announcement, James merely nodded, already growing curious. After he was sure the young Paterson was out of hearing range, he turned his attention back to the older.

"Don't worry."

Though Sean appeared optimistic, James had watched him all too long to not notice the shadow of pessimism that at times burdened him. He could have laced the statement with a bit of persuasion for his brother's benefit, but left it aside. Instead he minded his own business, stepping aside to allow the more charismatic of the two to address the customers as he fulfilled the orders. There were two girls there, regulars; Kim and Erin, whose eyes noticeably brightened at the appearance of Sean. One wore a too low shirt and the other, a bit too boisterous as she placed her order, clumsily dropping her change and holding up the forming line as she continued with some small talk. Not wishing to interrupt, James merely opened up the rarely used second register and began taking orders as well, with the slightest smirk gracing his lips.

"Could I get a slice of chocolate cake please?" The man was well dressed, a little too well-dressed actually. He took a quick look over James before taking a quick glance over at Sean. "You two don't look alike." The snake smiled, ignoring the comment. "Sorry, we don't serve cake on Saturdays. Would you like a raspberry tart instead?" The man considered it, then proceeded to pull out his change as James moved toward the baked goods. Grabbing one of two left, he wrapped the dessert with practiced speed before taking on another customer. After about another few minutes or so, the commotion had died down and he was able to leave his post. Tapping Sean on the arm, James headed toward the back.