Snapshot: Coffee, Tea, Or Me?
by Gilda Lily

Ray sits in the tearoom, absently drinking the hot cup of tea that the waitress has just brought him. Rain drums on the roof as he gazes out the window, watching the passersby splashing in the puddles and struggling against the wind. The murmur of diners runs low around the room.

Suddenly the door opens and Benny stands there, water dripping off his Stetson but his red serge is nearly dry, protected by the Mountie talisman. Ray's eyes light up and he smiles as Benny approaches the table and sits down.

"I'm sorry I'm late, Ray. The Inspector needed some last-minute invitations addressed..."

Ray holds up his hand. "Spare me the details, Benny." He signals the waitress to bring Benny a cup of tea. "This place is kinda interesting."

"I thought you'd like it, Ray. You're so cultured, that I thought a tearoom might be just the place for you." Ray's eyes gleamed. "I happen to know tearooms quite well, Benny." Benny tilted his head, then suddenly turned red. "Oh, uh..." Ray laughed and sipped his tea. Mint. Reminded him of Benny. Fresh and clean and pure...