You hesitated for a moment, glancing at Mara's hopeful expression. Her skills were evident, but with business being slow, you weren't sure you could take on another employee right now. "Mara," you said gently, "I know a few other bakeries in the area that might be hiring. I could put in a good word for you."

Mara's face fell slightly, but she nodded, her fingers tightening around her coffee cup. "I... I understand," she murmured. "Thank you for the offer." The rain outside grew heavier, drumming against the windows like a disappointed sigh.

You reached for your phone, pulling up the contact for Madame Laurent's Patisserie across town. "Claire Laurent owes me a favor," you explained as you typed out a message. "Her shop is bigger, busier. She might have room for someone with your skills."

Mara gave a small, grateful smile, though her eyes still held that quiet longing. "I appreciate it," she said, brushing crumbs from her fingers. The pain au chocolat sat half-eaten, its flaky layers now cold. The bakery felt suddenly too quiet, the weight of the moment pressing between you.

As you finished the message, the oven timer chimed—your next batch of croissants was ready. The familiar scent of baking butter filled the air, a reminder of why you loved this place. Mara stood, smoothing her frayed coat. "I should go," she said softly. "Thank you... for the pastry. And the coffee."

The shop bell jingled as she stepped back into the rain, leaving you alone with the warmth of the ovens and the faint imprint of flour where her hands had rested on the table.