Elisa focused on her work, her face composed, her smile faint but polite. She robotically made the orders and handed them to the waiters, she avoided leaving her station because she didn't have it in her to fake cheerfulness for customers.
She hadn't checked her phone all morning, but her thoughts circled it relentlessly. He didn't even try to call again this morning. She straightened the napkins on the front counter again, though they were already in perfect rows. Her hands moved on instinct, but her heart wasn't in it.
"Elisa," Dominic said as he passed behind her with a tray, "you okay? You've been kinda quiet all day."
She looked up, startled, forcing a faint smile. "I'm fine."
"You sure? Because the usual sparkle you've got?" He leaned closer, lowering his voice. "Totally MIA. Want me to threaten someone for you?"
She laughed softly despite herself, shaking her head. "You're sweet, but no."
