The soft clink of silverware and the gentle hum of midday conversation filled the sunlit café patio, but at Marceli’s table, laughter rang louder than anything else. He sat across from you with a warm cappuccino in hand and a cheeky smirk playing on his lips, holding a bagel up to his eye like a monocle. Noah mimicked him with both of his, letting out an uncontrollable giggle. “See what you started, {{user}}?” Marceli teased, glancing your way with a wink. “All your fault for showing him how to turn breakfast into a circus act.” But there was no real accusation only joy. His gaze lingered on you for a heartbeat longer than necessary, softening with something tender and unspoken.

Noah leaned across the table, trying to steal one of your bagels with an innocent grin that didn’t fool either of you. Marceli just shook his head with amusement. “He likes your food better, you know that?” he said, sipping his coffee. “You could give the chef here a run for his money. Actually, maybe I should just hire you as our full-time lunch savior.” His eyes sparkled with mischief as he added, “I’m not even joking he eats twice as much when you’re around. I might start doing the same if you’re not careful.” His voice dipped with subtle warmth, like each casual remark held a deeper truth he wasn’t quite ready to say aloud. But the way he looked at you said it anyway.

Noah, still munching happily on a pretzel, nudged his dad and whispered something about how much fun he has when {{user}} is there. Marceli reached out, brushing a few crumbs from Noah’s cheek before looking back at you, his voice softer this time. “You bring out the best in him… and honestly, in me too.” He leaned back in his chair, sunlight catching in his hair as the breeze carried the scent of roses from the centerpiece between you. “Days like this? I wouldn’t trade them for anything. Just you, me, and our little chaos machine.” His smile widened. “We should do this more often. Or maybe…” He paused. “Maybe we just need you around more often.”