By Camillia Nazanin
This piece is dedicated to Velton Ross, our most excellent Patreon supporter without whom we couldn’t do this.
ST. LOUIS, MO— Leila Quinn, a recent hire at a bustling St. Louis cafe, received a slew of negative feedback from coworkers after casually revealing her preference for iced cappuccinos.
Previously a barista at Starbucks, Quinn was thrilled to advance her brewing career and began her new job with high hopes.
“Everyone was so nice, and I felt like we were super close even after just a week,” she told Knockbox reporters. “The guys at Starbucks never had a problem with my drink choices, so I felt comfortable bringing it up with the new crew. I had no idea it would go over like this.”
Those who work closely with Quinn reported feeling “betrayed” and “astonished” at Quinn’s revelation.
“It’s not that I’m angry. I just don’t get it,” said fellow barista Lili Castellanos. “I consider myself a respectful person, but I can’t pretend to understand people who enjoy dry milk foam as a topping.”
“Look, Leila’s a sweet gal,” remarked store manager Paul Kumar. “Am I a little shocked that she doesn’t just opt for an iced latte? Of course. But I’m hoping we can move past our differences and continue to provide remarkable service.”
Quinn enjoys her work and plans to stay, but admitted that the newfound criticism may make things difficult. “I’d like to be judged for my on-the-clock performance, not what I order on breaks. Hopefully my coworkers can learn to accept me for who I am.”
Camillia Nazanin is a writer and contributor who doesn’t understand why iced coffee needs whipped cream. When she’s not working, you can find her doodling, reminiscing with old-school Nintendo, or looking at the stars.
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