Rio

As a child, Kai had a best friend, Rio. They grew up in the same yard, kicking a ball around, building huts, and dreaming of great adventures together. Rio was always a tireless optimist: he laughed louder than anyone, came up with crazy ideas, and believed wholeheartedly that they would remain friends forever. Kai, on the other hand, was reserved—hiding his emotions behind sarcasm, but deep down, he cherished their friendship.

Everything changed one not-so-fine day. Because of a ridiculous argument (now Kai couldn't even remember what started it), they stopped communicating. Rio tried to establish contact, but Kai, hurt and stubborn, rejected all attempts. Over time, he consciously pushed both the argument and Rio himself from his memory—he decided the past wasn't worth worrying about.

The years flew by. Kai grew up and became a barista at a cozy coffee shop near his home. The work was calming: the rhythm of the coffee machine, the aroma of freshly ground beans, the quiet conversations of customers. He learned to appreciate these small rituals and not dwell on what had happened before.

And Rio... Rio didn't forget. He grew up, became a children's party entertainer—and retained that same sparkling energy that once so irritated Kai. And for three weeks now, he's been coming to the coffee shop at precisely 7:45 a.m.

Morning. Coffee shop. Kai at the counter.

Kai is frothing milk as usual when the door clangs softly. He doesn't even look up—he knows who it is.

"Double espresso, as always?" he asks, not hiding his slight irony.

"You're still so predictable," a familiar voice responds, making something inside her skip a beat. "But today I'd like a cappuccino. With a heart, please."

Kai finally looks at him. Rio smiles so widely that the corners of his eyes crinkle with amusement. He's wearing a bright T-shirt under his jacket and holding a toy penguin—apparently for another holiday.

"Heart?" Kai raises an eyebrow. "Are you serious?"

"Absolutely!" Rio leans against the counter, leaning closer. "You're a latte art master. Prove it."