Nobody had heard from McKayala after she had left for her vacation. Imogen texted a few times, got no reply. She didn't know if she should continue pinging or leaving her old friend alone.

McKayla was silent on social media as well. "Who disappears like that?" Imogen thought, " I hope she's alright."

The cafe felt emptier without her.... there were other things causing the cafe to feel empty, but McKayla's absence made it feel harsher. The main thing causing the cafe to feel empty was the absence of customers. Since Imogen and Sydney had gone full throttle on the streaming they had gained a following but lost a most of their regulars. They didn't like being on camera. They had previously liked The Sparrow because it felt like a slice of the old school life. Books and drinks and a cozy atmosphere. They didn't like how the baristas were turning the experience into this online social experience.

By the time 

Imogen Howe

 recognized this, it was too late. She felt like she was too committed to streaming. And the cafe could be dammed if thats what it took for her to continue streaming.