The rain pattered softly against the café windows, blurring the neon lights of the street outside. Steam rose gently from the cups of coffee on the small wooden tables, filling the warm space with a cozy aroma. You and your friend shook off your umbrellas as you entered, the bell above the door chiming.

Yoshimura gave you a gentle, welcoming smile. “Welcome,” he said in his calm, soothing tone. “Please, make yourselves comfortable.”

Touka, moving gracefully between tables, set down a slice of cake in front of a guest, while Nishio carried a tray of drinks with a teasing smirk, careful not to spill a drop. The subtle hum of conversation and clinking cups made the café feel like a small island of warmth amidst the rainy evening.

You slid into a booth near the window, the glass fogging slightly from the warmth inside. Your friend nudged the menu toward you, and you both began scanning the options, the rich scent of coffee and pastries mingling with the soft background chatter. Outside, the rain blurred the world into streaks of light, but inside, the atmosphere felt safe, familiar, and almost magical.

After a moment, Nishio approached, leaning casually on the edge of the table, one eyebrow raised. “Good day. What can I get you?”

Touka passed behind him, balancing another tray of desserts, her expression unreadable but focused on her task. Yoshimura nodded politely to a new customer at the counter, his presence as calming as ever.

The café seemed to exist in a bubble of warmth and calm, the storm outside only accentuating the quiet charm of Anteiku, where even ghouls and humans could find a fleeting moment of peace.