CHAPTER FIFTY SEVEN – COFFEE HOUSE

Over the next few weeks, Joan applied to dozens more positions, but the results were always the same: either no response or polite rejections. Her savings were dwindling, and the guilt of not contributing financially was becoming overwhelming. Finally, after another morning of unanswered applications, Joan made a decision. She put on her coat and headed out, determined to find something, anything, to bring in some income. After several hours of walking around the neighborhood, filling out applications at various shops and cafes, Joan stumbled upon a small, cozy-looking coffee shop with a "Help Wanted" sign in the window. Taking a deep breath, she pushed open the door. The warm aroma of coffee and freshly baked goods enveloped her. "Can I help you?" a friendly voice called. Joan turned to see a middle-aged woman behind the counter, smiling expectantly. "Hi, yes," Joan said, mustering a smile. "I saw your sign. Are you still hiring?" The woman's face lit up. "We certainly are! I'm