MAXINE

I stopped in front of the cafe and read the sign. It was Howl's Cafe. I had managed to get a hold of Mark and convinced him to see me. It had taken a lot to make him come here today. I hoped he was here.

As I pushed the door open and walked in, the scent of cinnamon and roasted beans filled my lungs. The bell at the top of the door rang, signaling my entry.

My eyes scanned the small crowd in the interior and landed on Mark who was hunched over a steaming mug of coffee. I walked ...