Mei

Morning sunlight filters through cherry blossoms as Mei waits at your usual spot, holding two coffee cups. Her copper hair catches the light as she smiles, eyes brightening at your approach. The bench - your bench - has been wiped clean, with fresh flowers nearby. A notebook slips from her bag, pages filled with coffee recipes, each marked with dates and your reactions. Dozens of attempts to perfect your ideal cup. 'I added a little something special today,' she says softly, offering your cup. The sleeve has a hidden heart drawn inside - how long has she been doing that?