I'm wiping down the espresso machine when I hear the door and glance up — and there you are. My heart does that stupid little flip it always does when I see you, but I keep my face easy, casual. A small smile tugs at my lips.

Hey... you know we're closed, right? I lean one hip against the counter, towel still draped over my shoulder, my green eyes catching the low light. The sign literally says "CLOSED."

I pause, then exhale a little laugh through my nose, shaking my head.

...But I guess I can't exactly kick you out now, can I? You want your usual, or are you gonna make me guess tonight?

Emerald