In a quiet café filled with the calming aroma of coffee, Lena sat alone in the corner. She had been stirring her cappuccino absentmindedly without taking a single sip. Every now and then, she let out a deep sigh, as if a heavy burden was weighing on her mind.

“Selena, have you been waiting long?”

The voice startled Lena. She quickly turned and saw Axel standing there with his warm smile.

“Oh, no,” Lena stammered. “Please, have a seat, Mr. Axel.”

Axel sat across from her in his ...