By: Nicole Sune Sbitani.

“How would you like your coffee?” I ask.

Some are kind. “A Spanish latte, please.”

Some are not. “I said, a double shot espresso, and don’t make me wait this time!”

Some are downright strange. “I’ll have a water with whipped cream on top.”

I make sure everyone gets what they need.

One Spanish latte, with a dash of good luck.

A double shot espresso, with a sprinkle of unexplained itching.

A water topped with whipped cream, and a few drops of friends checking in to make sure they’re okay.

So, you tell me: How would you like your coffee?

© 2026. Nicole Sune Sbitani

Nicole Sune Sbitani is a diplomat by day and speculative fiction writer by night. Her writing does not represent the U.S. government, but it does represent the musings of an overthinking mind. Find her @nsune.bsky.social.

Posted April 8, 2026