Atlas Hensley's Story

Altas had woken up very early in the morning, and was typically up far before the sun ever was. He needed to prepare for his day of work at his Cafe. He had baking to do, dough to knead, cookies to decorate, whipped cream to make, and a lobby to clean. He wiped down the counters as he hummed a soft tune. Next he moved onto the plates and trays. And finally when it was nearly opening time he decorated roughly two hundred macaroon cookies, just in time to open the door for his first costumer of the day.

Though his cafe a was only open until just after noon, he had plenty of business. He had earned the patronage of a good amount of the residents of Veritas Isle, as he offered fair prices for delicious coffee drinks and pastries. Those Island residents told newcomers and tourists of their favorite bakery, and before he knew it, Atlas' cafe had exploded with business. Today was a terribly busy day though, Atlas ran around taking orders, making coffee, and serving up treats with a calm collected demeanor, and of course a smile, stopping to talk to patrons when he was able. Just as he felt overwhelmed his help for the day arrived to relieve him of taking orders and doling out the pastries. Atlas took over the coffee station, it was his passion after all, here he felt relaxed and in his zone. He could see across the way from his coffee shop, that people were playing a rather vigorous game of dodge ball. He shook his head with a slight chuckle. "Get the cold brew going!" He shouted to one of his employees, who started the cold brew immediately.

The game of dodgeball continued, at the woman hid behind her tree is safety more of the kids continued to eliminate each other until eventually all that remained was one more. Of course he had no idea there was one person left and stuck his arms in the air shouting "Victory!"

Of course busy celebrating his victory, the woman slinked from behind her tree and quietly snuck behind the teen. Ball ready to beam him however she soon smiled and laughed behind him. "Unfortunately this is my victory. It so happens that I, the great and ancient being is left. It is a great honor to face me in a duel, however victory shall be mine this day!" She spoke proudly as the teen went wide eyed.

She simply pulled her arm back making it appear that she would throw it right at him, but she ended up bonking him on the head. "Bonk!" She smiled proudly as she tossed her ball to the side and threw her own arms into the air. "I win! That was really fun!" She suddenly exclaimed as she jumped up and down in excitement.

Of course, what better way to celebrate a victory with something tasty. Like some food drinks and sweets. There was a café nearby so obviously it had food! WIth her destination set she began to skip her way to get some food.

---

Elwin strided through the city like he owned castles. He had just dropped off the dress to his customer and didn't want to go home just yet. Roshia was in a mood and god forbid he got in the way of her needing to follow Nasir around. I mean, I am Roshia's twin. I was literally her womb buddy. Ever since Ameria had to leave and go off on her little SOUL searching or whatever the hell she was doing with the damn trees and animals... Nasir has clung to Roshia and I think she likes the attention, though maybe it is because Father has gotten a bit more introvert or maybe it is old age. He sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. It was getting complex at home and the tension was suffocating him. He saw the girl skipping towards the bakery, but luckily got inside before her.

The smell of food and coffee lead Elwin into a busy bakery. There was a line to order, he waited, looking around as people chattered over food and drinks. They looked happy. The stress of living on a family own farm was bad, but he had been picked on by humans and other species for his preference. Elwin crossed his arms and stepped up when people moved out of the line with their order. It was a matter of many minutes when Elwin got to the counter. A very cute man who was a bit taller than himself. His deep amber eyes is what caught him first. "Uhm, can I get the largest hazelnut coffee you have with a couple donuts to go?" Elwin ordered, trying hard not to stare at his eyes or lips.

Atlas was back to waiting on customers once again as activity in the Cafe had slowed down a bit and it was easy for him to make drinks and wait on customers at this pace. Atlas was in the swing of things when a young man with gorgeous hair stepped up. Atlas was captivated by the rich flame red color in contrast with the mans pale skin. "Uhm, can I get the largest hazelnut coffee you have with a couple donuts to go?" The man spoke. Atlas smiled warmly "Sure, I'll get started on that for you in just a moment."
He said as he finished up a drink and called out the order "One triple shot Macchiato and chocolate cream horn to go" Atlas turned back to the red head in front of him. "Why not grab a seat? Its a tad hot to be drinking coffee outside today, dont you think?" He said as he looked up at the man for a second. "Its nearing closing so people should be clearing out, It will be nice and peaceful in here, perfect for book reading.." Atlas said softly, speaking out loud on accident. He poured the mans coffee and handed it to him, the aroma of hazelnut filling the air. Atlas sighed deeply, the man had ordered one of his favorite creations. "Now, what kind of donuts would you like?"

The woman skipped behind into line just behind an elf. And here she thought that she was quick enough, the place seemed to be closing for the day, she just hoped she could get her order before it did close or she would have to look for another shop to order her sweets and that would take away from her victory sweet feast!

From what she could hear, this place sold donuts! Nice, they might have glazed and sweetened donuts! Her nose was already tickled by the smell of hazelnut and she could not help but put both her hands on her cheek to savor the smell. She could only imagine how the donut would smell, she was exited.

Although maybe she should order a cold and refreshing drink, it was pretty hot out there so she may have worked up a sweat...If standing behind a tree for most of the game in the shade made her sweat at all...But right now she just had to wait a bit longer. Of course she needed to keep appearance so she soon stopped squeezing her cheeks with her hand and kept a neutral smile. Hand by her side as she waited.

---

Elwin nodded in agreement. For a moment he had forgotten about the heat outside. Grabbing his coffee, trying hard not to touch the guy's hand, he smiled, "glazed please." His voice was a lot softer than he wanted it to be. He could feel his cheeks warm up and knew he was blushing. He looked over his shoulder for a second so that the guy wouldn't see his blush and saw a girl, Elwin smiled before turning back to the guy. I hope he doesn't see me blush or think I am some weird guy who thinks touching his hand is the last thing I want to do.

Atlas nodded and turned to grab the donuts. He used tongs to pick up the sticky fresh donuts and set them on a plate for the man. He saw that he cheeks were a tad flushed, but assumed it was from the hot and humid weather they had been having. He handed the plate to the red headed man. "Is this your first time visiting the Cafe? I'm Atlas, I own the place, be sure to let me know how you like your coffee and your treats." He said with a warm smile. He pointed to an empty section of the Cafe where there were a set of arm chairs, a coffee table, and an oil lamp flickering away. "Thats spots empty for when you are ready to take a seat" He said smiling again. He had a calming and warm tone to his voice. He then asked the order of the next in line while he was awaiting a response, so that he could finish up the line and take his break.

As Duliana stood in line, the elven man in front of her would turn around with a blush. She was listening to him, his voice was soft as he ordered from the man. Someone is in love! She just knew it, although this meant trying to flirt and make him embarrassed seemed a little out of the question now perhaps she could try. Maybe...For now as the man behind the counter gave the man his order she stepped up with eager eyes scanning the delicious options. She needed something good to celebrate...oh who was she kidding, a victory sweet feast deserved a bunch of options. "I'll take some milk, Two chocolate cookies, two blueberry muffins, one strawberry muffin, three glazed cinnamon donuts and a slice of apple pie and coconut pie! This is a celebration worth of such a feast!" She spoke with a smile as she crossed her arms striking such a victorious pose. This would be a day to remember! And totally not just because she wanted to snack on a massive amount of sweets every chance she had.

---

Elwin took his plate of donuts and looked up at Atlas"Oh, yeah. I am usually not on this part of town, but I had a customer order a dress from me and I needed to deliver it. Thanks for the coffee and donuts." He said before paying the man and heading for his seat. Elwin was halfway there when he notice he never gave Atlas his name. "I am Elwin, nice to meet you." Turning back around, face fully flushed he sat down in a corner. He sat his stuff on the table and watched out the window. I wonder what Roshia is up to at home, hopefully not following Nasir around. When I get home I will tell her all about this place. I think she would like it here. I will make her get in touch with her feminine side, even if it kills me. Maybe she could hit it off with the baker boy. Not like she hadn't had boys fall over her before and then she kicked them to the side. Reasons I will never understand. He blew on his coffee and stared at it for a minute. Damn, this is good. He took a bite of the warm-gooey donut and almost moaned. It melts in your mouth! Roshia would die for these.

Elwin peeked at Atlas who was busy with other people. He looked so sweet, like his food. Roshia has to marry this guy. Then we can get good ass desserts and food. Everyone would love him on the farm.

Atlas took the young womans order, he wrote in on a piece of paper and gave it to another worker of his and poured the milk for the woman, then helped grab the rest of her order, "Alright thats one milk, two chocolate cookies, two blueberry muffins, one strawberry muffin, three glazed cinnamon donuts and a slice of apple and coconut pie. Another worker will be by to take your payment while I get it set out on a platter for you." Atlas said with a smile. Aother worker came and totaled up the amount of the desserts and milk and gave the woman her change while Atlas carried her order out to a table and set it out, he also set up to go containers and a bag if she should need it. "We hope you enjoy your celebratory treats!" He said with a warm smile.

After atlas was finished with the young womans order he called out "Last call for coffee drinks. Drip coffee and Pastries will be available till close." A few people came up to order to-go drinks and then left the Cafe, leaving it mainly empty. Atlas closed down his station and cleaned it off then went with his book to the chair across from the man he now understood to be Elwin. He sat down and opened the book before looking up at Elwin. "So, Elwin? How did you enjoy your coffee and donuts?" He asked, looking up at the man while waiting for an answer. "You design clothing right? Its not often I see men designing and making clothing, especially womens clothing. Its refreshing" He said. After he spoke one of his employees brought over an array of tiny cookies and layered drink in a clear cup to him, atlas thanked the man and set them down, the drink wafted notes of hazelnut and vanilla into the air.

After paying for her feast, Dulina smiled happily as she walked over to an empty table and began to munch on her sweets. First ones to go were the muffins, fresh blueberries and strawberries all inside a nice fluffy and warm muffin. All finished off with some cold milk. This was the life, play hard and eat hard.

She wondered what to do after she ate...That was something, she wondered if there were dragon flying activities or more games. Maybe there was a inn where she can see how many people gets embarrassed from casual flirting and jokes. Meh...This cookie with milk was delicious! Sweets were already a tasty treat! People sometimes say its going to her waist or rot her teeth but her teeth was pearly white! And she exercises enough so sweets are not a problem!

She will eat sweets until the day sweets no longer existed!

---

He watched Atlas for a bit before going back and finishing off his dessert. Leaning back in the chair he sipped his coffee. It was the best he ever had. Can't believe I haven't heard of this place before. This is what I get for only sticking to one side of town. Elwin stared at his cup of coffee and wondered if he could open a shop in town. Then maybe I can get Roshia out of there... no I couldn't do that to her. She loves being out there. He smiled at the memory when he would watch her slide from tree to tree, hiding, hunting for her prey. It was like she was dancing. He tried to get her to be more social with people outside of the village, but after defending him from people in town or tourist, she refused to think anyone as of value to have her time.

He was pulled out of his thoughts when Atlas came to site in front of him. He looked so... elegant, soft, strong... and mysterious. Elwin brought his cup to his lips, "It was wonderful, thank you." His body stiffened at the mention of his job, usually people thought it was weird, but Atlas thought it was refreshing. "Mmm, yeah. I learned how to sew from my mother and just took off with it. What made you want to make such a great bakery?" He asked, holding his coffee on his lap and watching his employee set up everything.

"Ah thats lovely though, Its nice that youre not afraid to do as you please regardless of the thoughts of others...I had worked in a tiny coffee shop in the middle of nowhere and grew a love for hot and layered beverages, and when I moved here I decided I might as well take a shot at opening my own, I never thought it would get this busy." Atlas said, he picked up a cookie and took a bite. "Im glad you like the donuts, to be honest im pretty self conscious about my baking skills since im self taught. To be even more honest I had only intended to open a coffee shop...But I figured I should offer some food to go with it!" Atlas gave a slight chuckle, his eyes lighting up as he spoke. He offered Elwin a cookie "Would you try it? Theyre a new creation, Lemon and Thyme cookies laced with a hint of honey. I made them to go with our earl grey tea but im not sure about them yet" He said and then took another nibble of his own cookie.

---

He smiled at the compliment. It wasn't everyday that he was getting them, unless it was from his family or customers. Elwin watched Atlas take a bit of his own cooking, watching his facial expressions. He was handsome, Roshia would learn to love him. They needed a damn good baker in the village. He was sweet, so she had no reason to turn him away. She can be the manly one in the damn relationship. He nodded, reaching out and gently grabbing a cookie before taking a bite. Self aware that he was eating in front of a complete stranger. He enjoyed the flavors, none overpowering the other. Ameria would love this.

"I enjoy this greatly. I have a sister who only drinks water or tea. She would love these. You should be more confidant in your work. I think if you sucked no one would come, but you have a talent. I will drag my sister here next time. She could use the peacefulness of your cafe." He stopped after that, feeling like he was talking too much.

Atlas smiled "Well I am glad you like it..Its been in the works for over a month now and I havent been able to get it quite right yet, but now I think I might." He said. "We have a large array of teas, both Iced and hot, and we also serve Tea lattes, so im sure your sister would be able to find something she would like. We also sell loose leaf tea by the ounce in tins, so she could brew it at home if she ends up not liking the often busy nature of the cafe. I didnt think it was possible for something to be so busy and calm at the same time, but working here proved me wrong real quick." Atlas chuckled at the last part. He pointed to a shelf on the opposite wall. "We also have books that we loan from the library, a new selection every week, If you or her enjoy reading that is" Atlas said, patting the book he had resting on his lap. "You'll come back and try something new wont you? Its not often I get people in who are open to conversation, or to trying new recipes" Atlas asked. He was grateful to have such a kind and honest man to speak to as most people wanted their coffee to go, or preferred to eat and drink without conversation, especially with a stranger.

---

Elwin listened, nodding when he needed to. Usually he was the one doing all the talking. It was nice to be the one to listen for once. He could see the light in Atlas' face when he talked about his cafe. It was his pride and joy, just like every clothing he made. He couldn't help but smile. He would make a great husband for Roshia... if only she could find it in heart to love someone outside her family. Maybe she is like Nasir after all. Well that is sure in the hell going to change. I refuse to let her be like him in anyway. She will have a happy life. Elwin's eyes followed where Atlas pointed and checked out the titles. He wasn't much of a reader. They usually never had time to read, well most of his family.

"You'll come back and try something new won't you? It's not often I get people in who are open to conversation, or to trying new recipes" Atlas asked. He blinked, a bit confused, but smiled.

"Of course, I think I found my new favorite spot. To bad you don't open later, this place would be look even better." Elwin stood up, gently placing his cup down on the table. "I should head on home now. My twin sense is tingling and Lord forbid she gets into something she can't get out of. Thank you again for everything."

" Right, and I've got to close up shop still. I look forward to seeing you..and your sister here again sometime! Oh and we are open again later at night. Just not much in the afternoon" Atlas said and shook the man's hand. He smiled warmly an said goodbye then cleaned up some tables and returned to the back of the shop where he loaded the sink with dirty dishes. He then returned to the front and began wiping the tables down and turning a few lights out. He then took the money from the registers and counted it out and distributed the tips before leaving the rest up to his employees. Atlas took his book and left, walking out to the park to enjoy some good reading in the shade on this hot day.

Kel jolted up as he was hit with the sudden realization that he had to go shopping. The tavern was out of several things that he used for making appetizers and other snacks that went well with his various drinks and brews. He ran up into his room and threw on a light blue, sleeveless button down shirt and strapped up a pair of sandals. As he went out the door, Cire was sitting by the door waiting anxiously.
"Okay, Cire, I've gotta run to the market and pick up a few things." Cire started jumping with excitement.
"No. You don't get to go with me." He scolded. Cire let out a growl in protest.
"Because the shops don't allow animals in them."
He let out another growl.
"Don't lie to me. We both know you won't stay outside. You'll see or smell something that will distract you and you'll end up running around in some shop and getting in trouble. I don't want a repeat of the fish market incident. Stay here and guard the house and, if you're a good kitty, I'll bring you home a treat." Cire seemed to understand and went to lie down by the garden gate and watched the door.

Kel walked to the city as quick as he could, he knew he had a few hours before he had to open the tavern, so he knew that once he got there he would have plenty of time to relax and find the best produce and ingredients for the tavern. As he was walking to the market he passed by a small coffee and pastry shop. The aroma wafting into the air was sweet and intoxicating to the point where he had to stop in his tracks. He peered in and was a little disappointed by the sing on the counter saying "Drip coffee only", but it smelled so good even that would be amazing. The pastries looked amazing as well. He couldn't resist the call anymore. He went inside and ordered a slice of the chocolate cheesecake and a large cup of the drip coffee from the person at the counter. He sat down in a corner seat near the window and did some people watching while eating. He noticed a girl that seemed to be close to his age, maybe younger, chowing down on a big spread of sweets covering her table and he also noticed two young men sitting at another table one was another elf and the other looked human. He could see by the subtle smiles and averted gazes that there was something brewing between them. He smiled, he wished he could find something like that too, but for now he was happy with his cheesecake. He ate slowly as he watched the people in the cafe and savored each bite. The texture of the cheesecake was as smooth as velvet and the chocolate sauce was rich and sweet. The coffee was the perfect pallet cleanser as well; it was fragrant, not too bitter and the perfect strength. "I should come in here every time I go to the market." he muttered to himself. "This place is awesome."
He caught the smell of the thyme and lemon and heard the human mention that it was a new recipe for the cookies he had made. His apothecary instinct struck without warning.
"Lavender goes best with lemon." He muttered under his breath. He knew they probably tasted great, but his apothecary instinct kicked in and as quickly as he had muttered the words, he wanted to take them back. Luckily, it seemed as though neither of them had heard what he said and before long the human began to clean things up. He was a bit relieved that he hadn't embarrassed himself, but his face was still bright red as he sipped his coffee.

---

Elwin was shocked when Atlas grabbed his hand to shake it. It was soft, but the grip was a comfortable. He smiled, "I might come again later tonight. Thanks for the lovely time." He walked out, smiling and nodded at the guy that had came in late before opening the door and looking back at Atlas as he cleaned. Elwin didn't look for too long before walking out. The sun glared at him, just like people did growing up. He tied his hair up and began for home.

I am going to get you out of that damn village and you will have a normal life. It is the least I can do for you, you have given me a peace of mind growing up, always getting into fights with the kids for picking on me. You deserve the best. Elwin walked with his head held high, just like Roshia taught him.

---

Nasir waved goodbye to her before turning back towards the tree, his ax waiting for him. He looked up just in time to see Roshia watching him. He gave her a small smile before going to work on the tree.

---

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---

Elwin had just got to their property when he saw the blonde girl on her dragon in the sky. Wonder what that was all about. Going to have to ask Roshia. He decided he was going to stop by her house and visit before going to his own home and continue working on that difficult dress. A groan escaped his lips as he thought about it. The woman who wanted it was high class and royally stupid. He knew he shouldn't have taken on this project, but what done was done.

He walked up to Roshia's house and saw Nasir chopping up a tree. Elwin stood there, watching him for a moment. Nasir's sleeves were rolled up and his vest was off on the side. His scarf seemed to be missing and his shirt was unbutton down to the middle. Elwin rolled his eyes just in time for Nasir to look up at him. Nasir's cheeks were red and sweat ran down his face. Elwin, embarrassed, hurried into Roshia's house.

She was at the window facing Nasir. "Have you been watching him this whole time?" He asked, walking up beside her and watching Nasir going back to chopping his wood.

"Not entirely, no. I have nothing better to do anyway, so why not watch the show right in front of me?" She asked him back, smiling up at him. Elwin didn't like where this was headed. He had to get her away from the window.

"Well lucky for you I can be your entertainment now." He smiled and grabbed her hand, leading her to her living room and plopping her down in a chair before taking his seat. She gave him a jokingly glare. "So I went into town to give Mrs. LaBrem her dress, but she had moved to the other side of town, the one we don't really ever go to. Anyway, I didn't want to go home just yet and smelled this aroma of delicious baked goods and coffee and you know me, I love my coffee. So, I went into this absolutely cute cafe and it was busy. So I am like... he has to be good, right?" Roshia nodded, she was all ears, eyes, and mind on him. Just what he wanted. "Well I get to the counter and this devilishly handsome man is behind the counter. His name is Atlas and he owns the place."

Roshia's eyebrow arched,"Like a book of maps?" She laughed. "Poor guy."

"Shush, this isn't about his name. Where was I... oh yes. So I get two glazed donuts, which were HEAVEN, and don't get me started on how amazing his coffee was. But he actually came sit down in front of me and started to chat. Even let me taste a cookie he was experimenting on. Lemon and Thyme I believe it was. He is so sweet and I think you will love him. You need to get out of this damn village and experience life out beyond this island. The city has lots to do."

Roshia rolled her eyes, "I have no reason to be going into the city, for one. I am glad you made a friend, besides your lady customers or me, but are you sure he wasn't interested in you, El?" She asked him.

"Oh for Heavens no. Someone as handsome as he is not into guys, I can tell you that. This is the perfect guy for you. He doesn't shun me, so you know... you should get along with him." He wasn't going to hope for something that would never happen.

"The guy is a baker... in the city. He is more suited for Ameria than me, but we both know Ameria likes to break things then hand them off to someone else to fix." She scoffed, rolling her eyes at the mention of their eldest sister.

"Well too bad, we are going to be meeting him later on today, well around night time. I told him I would bring you." Elwin said with a devilish smile.

"You did what?" She sat up, her face bluntly angry.

"You can be mad at me all you want." He leaned in closer to her, "I see how you and Nasir have been looking at each other. This isn't healthy. You deserve the best for everything you have done and Nasir is not... well he is our damn brother." He whispered.

Roshia blushed hard and her brows furrowed, "Nothing is going on between us." She hissed. "How could you accuse us of something like that? Like I said before, Ameria likes to break things and hand them over to someone else to fix. Nasir needs to be able to interact with people other than for business. If you were here you would have seen him doing so well with the Taryn girl next to us, the one who raises dragons. I mean..." She laughed, her anger seeming to dissolve some. "He did throw her into a thorn bush."

"Nasir threw her into a thorn bush?" He asked worried.

"Apparently something went down to where she was in danger and Nasir saved her." Roshia said proudly. "Maybe instead of worrying about something that isn't there, you can worry about yourself." She said a bit harshly. He winched. He was rarely at the receiving end of her anger, but when he was Elwin hated it more than anyone could imagine. Roshia was the one who figured out he liked guys before he even did. She even stood up to their father when he tried scolding him about it. Their father who Roshia adored more than anyone. She would beat up bullies who teased and threw rocks at him. He owed her his life. He knew what he saw and he was still determined to get her away from Nasir, as soon as possible.

"Sorry, what happened today sounds incredible, except for the girl being thrown into a thorn bush. Could you please just come with me tonight to see him and you can see for yourself that he is so not into me."

She was silent for a bit, "Why don't you bring him here? You can talk him into making a deal with father, if he doesn't already have one. Then you can introduce him to the family or just me, it is whatever. I have to get up early tomorrow and get some stuff ready for the summer. You know those damn tourist likes to get into everything. So have him come here before they show up and I can prove you that I am right, that he likes you." She smiled.

He sighed, "I can try, but if I am right you have to court him" She made a sour face.

"Fine." Was all she said.

He got up, kissed her forehead, and headed for the door, "I have to finish that god awful dress before I end up giving up completely. You deserve the best, Ros."

"Yeah yeah." She smiled. They waved goodbye before he closed the door. Nasir had two logs in both arms and was walking towards him.

They glanced at each other before walking of in their own directions.