Julian was surprised. It wasn't often that people recognized his work. And she'd only had a glance through his sketchbook. Once. "Yeah," he said. "They commissioned me for it just before Halloween. I did a few sketches, and finished up just before..." He indicated the cane. "Got a bit of a lesson in doughnuts while I was at it. Took about a week. Back home, someone would have been scratching graffiti into the paint by now, but looks like it's held up so far."
"Damn right it held up!" came a strong female voice. "Anyone tries to touch that work of, I'll kick their -- Julian Andros, what did you do to yourself?!" The voice went from grumpy to maternal in a heartbeat. An older woman came out from behind the counter, her apron liberally splashed with flour and confectioners sugar.
Julian gave her a light smile. "I'm fine, Magda, I promise. Just twisted my hip, that's all."
Magda scowled. "It's that monstrosity you ride, isn't it? Oh, I can't stand those things." Her eyes shifted towards Mel, and she smiled again. "Friend of yours, Julian?"
His smile widened. "Yes. Fray," he said, remembering how she'd debated about her name. "This is Magda. She owns the place. Fray goes to school with me."