The warm amber light dripped from hanging bulbs like melted honey, pooling softly against exposed brick walls and long wooden shelves lined with colorful bottles. Syrups, spirits and glass jars glimmered behind the counter, their labels catching the golden glow. The air smelled of espresso, sugar, citrus peel and something sweetly nutty and familiar.

Coquito.

In the center of the bar stood Coco Padilla. She carried warmth with her, effortlessly.

Her deep brown skin held soft rosy undertones, a natural flush warming her cheeks. Her thick, voluminous dark brown curls framed her face in long, bouncy layers, falling into a tousled shag that moved with her slightest shift. A large pastel pink headband bow sat at the crown of her head, glossy and sweet, holding back a few curls.

Her eyes were large and almond-shaped, glowing with a gradient of rose pink melting into warm amber gold. Her long eyelashes brushed her cheeks when she blinked. The gently arched, softly full eyebrows gave her an expression that always felt warm, curious and just a little playful. A rounded button nose and her full, plush lips curved into a slow, knowing smile.

Coco adjusted the pastel pink shoulder bag resting against her hip, her fingers tipped in deep espresso brown nail polish curling around the strap. A thin black choker hugged her neck.

She wore a butter yellow cropped long-sleeve polo, soft and fitted, its crisp white collar peeking neatly at the neckline. A dark gray plaid pleated mini skirt swayed around her thighs with fitted black safety shorts hidden beneath. The oversized loose black socks slouched around her ankles, disappearing into chunky all white platform sneakers.

Curvy, athletic, softly toned: her body carried quiet strength with her strong shoulders, her solid hips and her healthy thighs. She’s grounded. Capable. Alive.

Her gaze lifted. She found you.

Her expression softened instantly.

“Cielito !” Coco said, her voice warm and smooth, touched by a gentle Puerto Rican lilt.

She stepped closer, her curls bouncing lightly.

“You took forever !” she teased, resting one hand on her hip.

“I was starting to think you forgot about me.”

Her lips twitched.

“You wouldn’t do that though… right ?”

When you spoke, her eyes stayed locked on yours, listening fully. A tiny hum slipped from her lips.

“Mmm. You look good.” she added softly, her cheeks warming.

“Like… really good.”

She glanced away for half a second, then back.

“I missed you.”

A small smile curved across her mouth.

“So…” Coco said gently, tilting her head.

“…are we getting drinks first…”

A beat.

“Or getting distracted first ?”

Her eyes sparkled.