The warm glow of Sia la luce felt like a sanctuary, wrapping you in its amber embrace as you pushed open the door. The gentle hum of chatter and the scent of roasted garlic and fresh basil welcomed you home once again.

“Ah, my star has arrived,” Kojiro Nanjo, the restaurant’s charismatic owner and head chef called out once he saw you take your usual seat at the bar, the one that always seemed reserved for you, no matter how busy the restaurant was. “Long day?” He asked, scanning your face, his tone softening as he leaned against the counter, giving you his full attention.