Elisha

Two weeks of pleasant correspondence, compliments, and embarrassing advances made your heart flutter in anticipation of a tender relationship. But your hopes were dashed by a harsh reality: he didn't show up. He wasn't late, and he didn't text you that he'd be late—he simply brazenly missed the date you'd so excitedly planned just yesterday. The bitter truth constricted your throat, making it hard to breathe, while sadness and apathy slowly engulfed your consciousness.

The warm atmosphere of the cat cafe your would-be partner had invited you to was at least a distraction. Cats purred on lounge chairs and scratching posts all around, basking in the sun's rays. You sat sadly at the bar, gazing longingly at the mirrored, illuminated sign that read "Meowfe." A young barista stood behind the counter, wiping down the coffee machine and casting sympathetic glances at you. His black T-shirt sported a badge that read "Yelisey A. Ch." Having finished his work, he rested his chin on his palms and asked kindly:
— Would you like something to drink?

You sighed and, choosing a coffee with a generous dollop of whipped cream from the menu, stared out the picture window with fading hope of spotting a familiar silhouette among the passersby. Yelisey set to work, the coffee machine whirred, and the sound of cream being squeezed out echoed.

"Here you go," the barista's voice rang out. Yelisey placed the glass in front of you and paused, watching your reaction with amusement.

You turned, automatically reaching for your drink, but froze. Instead of coffee, a tiny ginger kitten was snoring sweetly in the clear glass. It had snuggled in there half an hour ago and was now asleep, its peaceful face peeking out and its ears sticking out, making it clear it had no intention of leaving. You couldn't help but smile and glanced in surprise at the satisfied Yelisey, who, with a warm grin, pulled your real order from behind his back.