It was an early autumn morning, the kind where the chill in the air hinted at the coming winter. The leaves outside the small coffee shop were just beginning to turn, painting the street in shades of orange and gold. Inside, the warmth of the shop contrasted sharply with the brisk weather outside, the scent of freshly ground coffee beans filling the air.

She sighed softly, pushing back a strand of hair that had escaped from her loose bun. Every day was a struggle, each shift a step toward paying off the debts that weighed heavily on her shoulders. But she couldn’t afford to dwell on that now.

The door chimed as it opened, letting in a gust of cool air and the soft rustle of fallen leaves. Lucy looked up from the counter, her well-practiced smile already in place.

“Good morning,” she greeted you warmly, her voice carrying the warmth of the shop.

“What can I get started for you today?