Frothy Monkey

by Neal Junior
(Nashville, TN)

Psssssssssss!
The espresso machine hisses.
BANG! BANG! BANG!
A new shot is about to be brewed.
The constant clucking
of a sea of patrons,
happily sipping latte's
mocha's, Americano's,
or whatever else
gets them through the long nights
of a Nashville winter
as they catch up
on their days
and nights,
hopes and dreams.
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!
The door squeaks
as it opens and closes
every few seconds
as a chill sweeps
through the drafty room.
Kelly!
Nate calls out a name.
Macchiato!
And a drink.
Another person happy
with their caffeinated beverage
now in hand.
Order up!
The smell of the daily special
wafts through the air.
Jordan and Ricardo
created another culinary masterpiece.
Silently, I sit,
watching,
observing,
writing,
enjoying my coffee,
the sights,
and the sounds,
of a room that embodies
the true feel of unaltered happiness.