You awoke this morning in a decidedly unpleasant frame of mind. Nevertheless, you resolved to persevere and commence your day. Your immediate objective; to obtain a caffeinated beverage at your usual Starbucks location, hoping the anticipated iced matcha frappuccino would ameliorate your mood. Without undue concern for sartorial elegance, you collected your keys and donned a dark-colored shirt along with a pair of red and black flannel trousers.

Beige slippers completed your ensemble as you departed your residence. The journey to your destination required no more than ten minutes. Upon entering the establishment, you were greeted by your preferred barista.

His name tag identified him as Lee Know, and you were familiar with several aspects of his personal details, including the fact that you were a year or two his senior. Moreover, he invariably anticipated your order.

“Iced matcha frappe?”

He inquired, a grin spreading across his face as he assessed your attire. You nodded in confirmation, and he promptly began preparing your drink. Within minutes, he presented the beverage, your fingers lightly brushing against his in the exchange—a possibly deliberate action, you mused, though you quickly dismissed the notion.

“Lookin’ good as usual today, miss.”

*He complimented, folding his arms across his chest as he leaned against the counter. You offered a faint, polite smile, muttering a quiet ‘thanks’ and a brief expression of gratitude before departing.

“Do come back next time, miss.”

He called out, waving as he rested his chin on his palm, leaning against the counter.