Customers started trickling in, curious about the cozy little shop near the university campus. Bani and Aman greeted each guest with warm smiles, their enthusiasm infectious. A group of college students entered, scanning the display filled with Chocolate Truffle Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and Butter Cookies.
"Try our cupcakes! We have Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry," Bani suggested. One of the students nodded eagerly and bought a set.
An elderly couple walked in next, their eyes settling on the Whole Wheat Bread and Oatmeal & Raisin Cookies. "It smells just like the bakery we used to visit in our childhood," the woman said nostalgically.
Bani beamed. "I hope it tastes just as good, ma'am."
As more customers arrived, Aman handled the counter efficiently. A group of office-goers placed an order for Garlic Cheese Toast and Spinach & Corn Quiche, savoring the rich flavors. A young woman asked, "Do you take custom cake orders?"
"Yes! We offer cakes in 500g and 1kg portions. What flavor would you like?" Bani inquired.
"Black Forest, for my sister's birthday," the woman replied.
Bani took the order, making a note of the special request. Meanwhile, a family ordered a mix of Paneer Puff, Cheese Corn Puff, and Mushroom Puff, their kids excitedly pointing at the Mini Chocolate Puffs.
As the sun began to set, the bakery's warm lights created a cozy atmosphere. More guests arrived—some were students looking for a quick bite, others were locals eager to try something new. The Baked Cheesecake and Brownies with Chocolate Sauce became fast favorites.
Bani glanced at the clock—6 PM. It was time to close. Today had been busier than expected, especially with so many relatives visiting. They had come not just to meet her but also to see the shop she had worked so hard to establish. Some had been skeptical about her venture, while others had been supportive from the start. But by the end of the day, even the doubtful ones couldn't deny the steady flow of customers and the satisfaction on the faces of those who tasted her treats.
"Enough for today," Aman said, stretching his arms after hours of helping. He had handled the online orders while Bani managed the counter. Their teamwork had made things smoother.
As they stacked the empty trays and cleaned up the counters, Bani felt a deep sense of fulfillment. Every sale, every compliment, and every smile she had received today reassured her that she was on the right path.