The soft hum of the café settled over Malia like a warm blanket as she stirred her cappuccino. She'd picked this corner spot for its quiet charm, not realizing how much it would come to feel like a sanctuary from the chaos her life had become. Today, however, the serenity felt different—tinged with anticipation.
"Still a fan of quiet corners, I see," a familiar voice teased, warm and full of nostalgia.
Malia looked up to see Ethan standing there, his grin as easy as ever. He hadn't changed much: the same sharp hazel eyes, a mop of wavy brown hair, and that boy-next-door charm that had always made people feel at ease.
"Ethan!" she exclaimed, standing to embrace him. His arms enveloped her in a way that felt safe, like a tether to simpler times.
"I'm back in the city," he said as they sat. "Thought I'd surprise you."
"You did." Malia smiled, shaking her head. "I can't believe you're here. How long has it been? Three years?"
