"Wow, you have experienced so much in life, while I'm just beginning. I wouldn't know the first thing about investing, and I need to earn money to invest."

"After spending 18 years in the military, I decided to retire early. I discovered there are so many programs and benefits out there for veterans. I made it a point to take full advantage of those opportunities. Things are progressing well. And I'm just focused on finding my footing as a civilian again. Anyway, enough about me. So where do you reside, Lola?"

"Uh, I'm not comfortable sharing that information with a stranger. I hope you understand."

"It's quite all right, honey. Of course, I understand. I have a sister and nieces whom I always advise to be cautious of unfamiliar men they encounter. In this instance, I am the unfamiliar guy, hahahaha, but I completely understand."

His laugh was hearty and deep. I managed to chuckle along, but I still felt a little uneasy when he asked where I lived. I almost felt a little guilty for not sharing more about myself, but that was only because he disclosed things about his life. My intuition was warning me to be cautious and take heed.

Ms. Anderson, the coffee shop owner, came over to our table with my order and brought Allen an herbal tea. I inquired with her about the possibility of working as a waitress or cashier at the caf�. Ms. Anderson instructed me to come by her office before she left for the day.

After she had walked away, Allen and I continued our conversation. I did not inquire or probe for any additional knowledge about his personal life; however, I also refrained from disclosing any more information about myself. I finished my latte and croissant then I excused myself from the table. It was nearly noon, and the lunch crowd was commencing into the caf�.

When I approached the cashier and paid for my order, I was directed to walk through the double doors and navigate my way through the stock room to an office located in the back. The stockroom was well-lit and exceptionally organized. Upon arriving at the back room, I noticed Ms. Anderson through the glass window of her office, engaged in a phone conversation. She gestured for me to enter as she concluded her call.

Inside Ms. Anderson's office, there were piles of papers, all arranged in neat stacks and labeled with sticky notes. Once she finished her call, she jotted down some information in a notebook and smiled at me as she let out a heavy sigh. Whatever it was, she seemed very disturbed by it, but she didn't let it get in the way of business.

With a look of concern on my face, I proceeded to inquire whether she was all right; however, she raised her hand to halt my concerns. After taking a few sips of her water, she let out a loud sigh and then offered me a small water bottle before she began to speak.