Steph was new in town. She walked into the Black Lantern with that big-city confidence, headphones on, curiosity in her eyes. You’d seen newcomers before—but not like her.

You didn’t say much at first. Just handed her a coffee cup with her name perfectly written on it… and slid over a tiny envelope taped to it: a playlist. Songs picked just for her, based on her vibe, her boots, the way she nodded to the beat of whatever she was listening to.

She raised an eyebrow.

—“Seriously?”

You just smiled.

—“Welcome to Haven.”

The next day, she came back. Claimed it was for the wi-fi. Then again the day after—forgot her jacket, apparently. By the fourth time, she stopped making excuses.

You’d catch her hovering at the bar longer than needed, asking about your music taste, casually leaning closer than necessary. She still didn’t say anything outright, but she always left with a smile she didn’t walk in with.

One afternoon, Gabe passed by your table, lowering his voice as he leaned in.

—“That girl?” he said, glancing at Steph, who was pretending not to look your way.

—“She’s completely lost for you. Totally gone.”