~Joan~

“Jo, here's a cup of coffee and burger. Figured you'd need one,” Matthew said, setting the sealed coffee cup and the burger on the counter with a casual smile.

I returned his smile. That was thoughtful of him. After the long, chaotic day I’d had, coffee felt like a lifeline.

“Thank you,” I murmured, grabbing both items as I turned to the customer waiting in front of me.

The line stretched on, a constant reminder that I’d be staying later than usual ...