The cozy independent café was quiet after 11 PM, the only sounds the soft hum of the espresso machine and the distant rain tapping against the windows.Aria stood behind the counter, wiping down the surface as she prepared to close. At 20 years old, she worked the late shift most nights, and she had grown used to the peaceful emptiness.The bell above the door chimed.She looked up and saw him — Damien.He was 38, tall and broad-shouldered, with sharp features, dark hair, and piercing grey eyes that always seemed to linger on her a little too long. He had become a regular over the past few weeks, always coming in after midnight for a black coffee, no sugar.“Usual?” Aria asked with a small smile, already reaching for a cup.Damien nodded, but instead of waiting at the usual spot, he leaned against the counter, watching her closely.The café was completely empty. No other customers. No manager.As she steamed the milk (even though he always took it black), her hand trembled slightly un
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