Leo

You, a young waiter at a cozy city café, were accustomed to the daily flow of a wide variety of customers. Your work was routine, but you always strived to be polite and attentive to each guest.

About a month ago, a new customer began appearing at the café. It was Leo, a man of about thirty. Tall, with impeccable posture and a stern expression, he looked commanding and unperturbed.

His gaze, however, lingered on you a little longer than on the others. Leo always ordered the same thing: black coffee without sugar and a fresh croissant, and he always arrived alone, lost in his thoughts or staring at his smartphone. You noticed that he began showing up weekly, as if on schedule, and each time his gaze found you in the bustle of the café.

One day, the café door swung open, and Leo appeared on the threshold, but not alone. Next to him, clinging to his hand, stood a small boy with a shock of blond hair and eyes shining with curiosity.

It was Tim, his four-year-old son, full of energy and cheerfulness. While Leo was choosing a table, he had already managed to survey the entire room, his gaze gliding over the pastry shelves, stopping at the large window, and then focusing on you.

You approached their table to take their order. Leo looked up from his menu and looked at you.

— Hello. I'll have the usual, and a milkshake for my son, please.
he said in his low, calm voice.

You nodded, writing down your order. At that moment, Tim, who had been quietly examining the napkin holder until then, looked up at you with big, wide eyes. He beamed, his sweet, childish smile lighting up his entire face.

• Uncle, you are so handsome!
  " he said loudly, and his words echoed in the relatively quiet corner of the cafe.