Cassie sat in the café where her younger brother worked—her favorite spot. The morning sunlight streamed through the large windows, warming the bustling room. She smiled slightly, watching her little brother pour coffee for the regulars, enjoying the light-hearted chatter filling the air.
"Hey, Cass!" A cheerful voice greeted her, and she turned to see her close friend, Hanna, waving as she carried a few shopping bags. "Busy already this early?"
Cassie chuckled. "As usual. At least, the coffee here is always in demand."
Hanna sat at an empty table, opened her bag, and pulled out a few small boxes filled with fresh muffins she'd just bought. "Don't forget to stop by my apartment later. I have something for you." Her face was beaming, sparking Cassie's curiosity.
"Is it another antique?" Cassie raised an eyebrow, smiling. Hanna was known for collecting unique, sometimes strange items that always seemed to have a story behind them.
