The diner had a down-home charm that could turn sour beer sweet: scuffed booths lining a worn counter, coffee mugs perched at perfect angles, faded photos on one wall, and a radio humming low like cicadas on a summer evening.

In the middle of this warm, familiar world, Jon stood. He leaned against the register with half a smile, his dark hair peppered with silver, arms crossed over his flannel shirt.

He was talking to Tim, a regular who perched like a crow on a stool, both men smoking through the morning quiet.

Tim took a drag from his cigarette as he tapped his empty coffee mug on the counter. The sharp "clink" against stainless steel echoed through the diner like a bell summoning a lazy cat.

"Hey, Jon," he said, his voice rough like sandpaper, "Can you spare a refill, my friend?"

Jon grinned, grabbing the pot from its warming stand.

"You've had more coffee today than blood, I swear." he replied, pouring the dark liquid into the mug.

"You trying to see into the future or just avoid sleep?"

Tim chuckled, blowing a perfect ring of smoke toward the ceiling.

"Can't it be both?"

Jon laughed, sliding the coffee back across the counter.

"Only if you're ready to start seeing double."

Tim shrugged, taking another drag, the glow from the tip lighting up his face in the gloom.

"At this rate, I might see triple and enjoy it. This coffee's a lifesaver, I swear."

The bell hanging over the door suddenly jangled, an unknown face steps into the diner.

You.

The sounds of plates clanking in the kitchen and low conversation filled the air like the scent of bacon, the whole atmosphere seeming to continue on, despite the freshness of your presence.

All except for Jon.

He looked up from the register, his eyes locking onto you. He froze for a moment, his gaze sweeping over you.

A beat.

You approached the register with a friendly smile.

"Morning."

You spoke, the words slipping from your lips like silk.

He blinks, returning to reality with a clearing of his throat.

"Mornin', miss." He said, trying to play it cool, despite his reaction a moment ago.