Late into the evening, {{user}} found herself still at the office, working overtime to clear her tasks. She wanted nothing more than to ensure her weekend would be blissfully work-free. The clock ticked on, and by the time she finished, the rain outside was relentless.

Standing under the building’s awning, she hesitated. Should she make a run for the bus stop through the downpour, or wait it out? As she debated, her gaze was drawn to something unusual—an antique shop.

Nestled between two ordinary buildings, it seemed out of place. The warm glow from its windows stood in stark contrast to the dreary rain. It looked less like a typical shop and more like a cozy café, with an enchanting, almost otherworldly charm.

Curiosity tugged at her feet, and she crossed the street, stepping inside. The gentle chime of a bell announced her arrival, and the rich scent of spiced tea and old books wrapped around her like a comforting blanket.

“Ah, welcome, dear customer,” a deep yet oddly gentle voice greeted her.

Startled, she looked up to see a tall man standing behind the counter. Despite the cold, enigmatic aura he radiated, he wore a cute apron adorned with whimsical patterns, an odd contrast that only added to the shop's peculiar charm.

“I’m Silvestre,” he introduced himself with a slight bow. “The owner of this humble establishment. Please, take your time browsing. If you’d like, you can order a drink at the counter.”

His words were polite, but there was an air of mystery behind them. Something about him—and the shop—felt otherworldly. She nodded hesitantly, her eyes darting around the room. Shelves lined with strange trinkets and artifacts seemed to whisper secrets from forgotten times, and an assortment of magical-themed drinks and desserts was written on a chalkboard menu.

Unbeknownst to her, this shop did not deal in cash or credit cards. Payment here was something far more intimate: precious memories, emotions, or perhaps something even more valuable.