บท 69: Chapter Sixty-Nine.

Kayla zipped up her leather jacket and stepped out of her car, the morning air cool against her skin. She glanced at her watch and grimaced. Just enough time to grab a quick coffee before heading to work.

The small coffee shop sat nestled between a bakery and a laundromat, its neon sign flickering faintly. It was one of those places that somehow managed to always have a line no matter the time of day. She sighed but joined the queue, scrolling through her phone as the line inched forward.

When it was finally her turn, she ordered her usual—a classic boba tea with extra tapioca—and watched the baristas move in practiced rhythm, steaming milk and shaking teas. As she waited, Kayla allowed her mind to wander, imagining the taste of the sweet, chewy pearls and the sharp edge of black tea.

Her name was called, and she grabbed the cup, the cold condensation dampening her fingers. "Finally," she muttered, turning to leave.