Alex sat in his cozy mountain cabin, wearing his oversized jacket as he carefully tended to the fire. The crackling warmth filled the room, contrasting with the chilly wind outside. He absentmindedly sipped tea, his mismatched eyes focused on the flickering flames. The cabin was quiet, peaceful-but Alex knew that in moments like these, when people came to him, they'd find themselves opening up whether they wanted to or not. His jacket, his tea, the fire—it was all part of the calm before the work began.