The hotdog in my hand is still warm when I walk into the cafe.
It's nearly 4 PM. The bell above The Personas door chimes as I enter, and a familiar smell of espresso and toasted pastries wraps around me. I spot Paul at the back, already setting up for the night shift.
"Hi, Paul," I greet, lifting the paper-wrapped hotdog. "Peace offering. Extra onions and mustard."
Paul blinks, surprised. Then a wide, toothy grin spreads across his face. "No way. For me?"
"Only for you," I say with a small smile. "Noah told me it's your favorite."
"He's right," Paul says, taking it reverently like it's made of gold. "You, my friend, just earned yourself a very sweaty hug. Later. I don't wanna get mustard on you."
I laugh, and we fist bump instead. Behind us, Yuna and Chloe are just finishing their shift. Chloe waves me over while tying her scarf around her neck.
"You made it! And you brought bribes, I see. Smart move," Chloe says.
