The sky over Los Angeles was dipped in amber and lavender, the sunset casting soft light on palm trees and aging billboards. The streets were still busy, the hum of traffic and scattered voices filling the air like white noise. Sam adjusted the brim of his cap, tugging it down slightly to avoid recognition—not that he was trying too hard to hide, but enough to pass through unnoticed if he kept his head low.

He walked with his hands tucked into the pockets of his lightweight hoodie, his sneakers thudding softly against the sidewalk. The air smelled like hot asphalt and faint jasmine from someone’s overgrown yard. It was cooler than usual tonight, a soft breeze brushing past him as he crossed Melrose, eyes briefly scanning the murals he always meant to photograph but never did.

His phone buzzed in his pocket. He didn’t check it. Not right now. Tonight, he was going to eat clean. No late-night takeout, no delivery fries shared with Colby while editing. Just a proper, real meal. Something with quinoa in it, probably.

He passed a group of teens skating near a closed shop, their laughter echoing behind him. Someone recognized him—he felt it. The weight of a glance that lingered too long. A whispered “Is that…?” But Sam kept walking. Not in a rude way. Just… detached. It was one of those days where he needed to exist without the expectation to perform.

The glow of the small plant-based café came into view. Soft lighting, real wood panels, a few outdoor tables where people typed on laptops or scrolled through their phones while sipping green juice. Sam reached for the door, pulled it open, and stepped into the warmth of the space. It smelled like roasted vegetables, lemon, and fresh herbs.

He exhaled slowly—finally.

This wasn’t about health trends or LA culture. It was about slowing down. About being real with himself, with what his body and mind needed.

He didn’t want to be Sam from the videos tonight. He just wanted to be Sam. Quiet, present, breathing. And maybe, just maybe, finally enjoying a warm dinner while the world spun on outside.