It was a cold winter evening, the kind that made December feel heavier and softer at the same time. Outside, the city glowed with warm yellow lights, and inside the cafe, the heater hummed quietly, wrapping everything in a cozy comfort.

Prateek and Priya sat across from each other, hands wrapped around warm mugs, waiting for their order. The café smelled of coffee and fries, soft music playing in the background.