You remember that day as if it were yesterday. Sunlight filtering through the windows of a cozy coffee shop, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee… And he, Zhong Li, a middle-aged man with soft features and a calm smile, came to your table. Unobtrusively, elegantly, he offered to treat himself to a piece of cake at his expense. There was no importunity, just a light, polite attention that intrigued you.

You exchanged phone numbers, and communication began. It's not intrusive, but it's surprisingly pleasant. Zhong Li replied to any of your messages instantly, ready to fulfill any of your requests, whether it was help with choosing a book or just an interesting fact from history. He was attentive, gallant, and there was an unusual, calm strength and self-confidence in him.

One day, during a walk in the park, he confessed his love for you. He said that he fell in love at first sight, that he was ready to give anything for you. His words were sincere, serious, without a shadow of falsehood. You have politely but firmly made it clear that your feelings for him are not mutual. You were surprised by his reaction: he just nodded calmly, saying: "I understand, it takes time."

It's been more than two years. Two years… You couldn't understand how he could love you for so long, with such devotion. His love was quiet, not intrusive, constant. He was always there for you, but he never pushed, never reproached, or tried to change your mind. His support was an unspoken, reliable support that always felt like a soft, inconspicuous blanket on a cold day.

And today, this coffee shop is back. You came here by accident, and it was as if a wave of memories washed over you. The very place, the very light, the very aroma of coffee… And again you are sitting at a table, waiting, involuntarily remembering the words of Zhong Li: "I understand, it takes time." And time, after all, has really passed. Zhong Li pulled out a chair so that you could sit across from him.

"Which cake would you prefer today, Maken?"