“Thank you.” she smiled warmly, before turning to follow his directions to the laundry room. It felt like a bit of an imposition to just hand off the clothes but she understood since she took care of an inn as well.
The closer she got, the more there were muffled sounds of conversation and laughter along with splashing water. People were already awake and taking care of things for who knows how long before she got there.
Charlotte smiled at the familiar sounds as she approached, remembering the many times she had done this task with her friends and coworkers. She was almost tempted to join but she should go back and check on Rodney.
The staff gladly took the items she had, shooing her off telling her to go enjoy her morning and get some breakfast. So it appeared that her decision was made for her.
Charlotte smiled and thanked them before taking their suggestion, heading back to the main room of the inn. After all, she didn't want to get in their way.
The man was still behind the counter, slightly more awake but still on autopilot. The inn was becoming more lively though as people started their work day.
Charlotte smiled at the sight but forced herself to remember that she was only a guest this time. She didn't have any work to do here. She was just a traveler. Letting out a soft sigh, she headed up to the counter.
The man behind it continued in his autopilot, slowly blinking as he ran through the motions of the morning routine like a robot. They needed to put someone else on opening shift, let this poor man sleep.
Charlotte had to admit, she felt a little guilty about bothering the man again. Even if it was his job… She cleared her throat slightly to get his attention.
He snapped up again, suddenly awake. "Hm? Oh, you're back. Did you find the room okay? I mean, you're not carrying anything so I'm assuming the answer is yes but I feel like I have to ask anyway."
“Yes, I did. Thank you and I understand, trust me.” she smiled politely. “I had the same job you do before I got out of there.”
He raised an eyebrow at her. "Really? Well then stranger, where are you from? And what are you doing in a place like this?"
“Traveling. Finally.” she admitted with a bright smile. “I’m just from the town two days over so… Not far yet.” she shrugged.
He nodded with a sleepy smile. "Sounds like the start of an adventure. You here on your own or do you have a guide through this?"
“Actually, yes, I do have a companion and he's been traveling for a long time.” she nodded, running her thumb over her bracelet.
"Really now? What's he like? Any fun or just a boring tour guide?" He leaned against the counter, now looking genuinely interested.
“I think he's fun. A bit… theatrical but it's charming. And he's very intelligent.” she said, leaving out the little part about how easily he could get into trouble on his own. “He’s still asleep right now, however.”
"And making you do this all on your own? How dare he." He chuckled softly, shaking his head in mock disappointment.
Charlotte giggled and shook her head. “I just decided not to wake him. And surprise him with something to eat.” she added.
"Aw, aren't you sweet. If that was my companion, I'd smack him with a pillow until he woke up. Or maybe that's just influence from being an older brother. Who knows." He shrugged with an innocent smile.
Charlotte laughed at the man's expression and shrugged. “I wouldn't know. I'm an only child.” she smiled.
His eyes went wide and he gasped. "No, I don't believe that. Really? I didn't think anyone around here even knew how to stop at one kid. I can't even imagine."
“Oh, don't misunderstand. I'm sure that my parents tried and I have a big family on both sides but…” she shrugged. “Anyway, enough about me. I would like to see a menu or hear some of your breakfast options.” she smiled, leaning towards the counter.
He handed over a worn paper with a menu scrawled on it. "Here you are, m'lady. Take a look at that although I will warn you, it's very early so some things may take a bit longer as the kitchen is still setting up."
“Of course.” she nodded, completely understanding as she took the menu. It always took some time to get a kitchen warmed up and ready. But if Rodney kept sleeping as hard as he had been, then there was no real rush.