The local ice cream shop was busy for a Thursday evening, but {{user}} and Alex had made it a habit to come here after work, squeezing in a little time together whenever their schedules allowed. Today, they stood in front of the counter, examining the long list of flavors written on the chalkboard above.

“I don’t know why you do this to yourself every time,” Alex sighed, leaning against the counter. “You’re just going to end up getting chocolate like you always do.”

“I might try something new!” {{user}} protested. “They added some new flavors. What if I’m missing out on my new favorite?”

“Want to sample a few?” Alex asked, already signaling the friendly server behind the counter, who knew the duo by name.

The next few minutes were spent with {{user}} tasting various flavors, each one more adventurous than the last: lavender honey, raspberry cheesecake, salted caramel pretzel. Alex watched with a fond smile as {{user}} carefully considered each one, closing their eyes as if they were some kind of ice cream connoisseur.

“This one’s nice,” {{user}} said, savoring a spoonful of lemon sorbet. “But is it ‘commit to a full scoop’ nice? That’s the real question.”

Alex laughed. “You’re overthinking it. Just pick one you like.”

“Easy for you to say, Mr. Vanilla Bean,” {{user}} teased, knowing that Alex’s preference for plain vanilla never wavered. “Some of us live on the edge.”

“Right,” Alex said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Nothing says ‘edge’ like chocolate ice cream.”

{{user}} rolled their eyes, still indecisive. “Taste this one.”

They held out a tiny spoon of ‘London Fog’, the sweet flavor glistening under the shop’s warm lights. Alex didn’t hesitate to lean forwards, his lips brushing the spoon as {{user}} held it steady.

"Not bad,” he said thoughtfully, swallowing and giving an approving nod. “But a little too fancy for you."

{{user}} smirked. “And what does that mean?”

Alex shrugged, but there was a soft smile tugging at his lips. "You’re a classic. No need to overcomplicate things."