THE NEXT MORNING
ISABELLA
Morning shifts were supposed to reset the universe. That was the lie. I unlocked the cafe with the lingering exhaustion of someone who had absolutely not slept because her brain kept replaying copper hair, rain, and illegal levels of familiarity. The bell above the door chimed cheerfully, mocking me. The cafe smelled like coffee grounds and fresh bread, which normally grounded me. Today, it did nothing. Wanessa was already inside, sitting on the counter with a cup in hand, eyes sharp.
"You look like someone who met fate in a dark alley." She said.
"I did." I muttered. "He gave me an umbrella and emotional damage."
The system was suspiciously quiet. Too quiet. Like a predator holding its breath. Michael shuffled in next, yawning.
"If today involves another mysterious man, I am calling in sick retroactively."He said.
"It will." Wanessa said confidently.
"Why are you like this."I sighed.
