Their next stop is a small cafe tucked away a block away from the boutique. Under the autumn dimmed sun, they settle on the cafe's patio and split a chocolate croissant. The mild wind carries a faint scent of espresso, gently tousling Ardyn's hair. He takes a generous bite of the flaky dessert, and seemingly melts with its buttery taste.
They sit side by side—Ardyn had protested adamantly when Kahili pulled out the chair across from him, insisting on sitting together. Now, nestled beside Kahili, Ardyn hums a soft melody, his shoulders swaying slightly in tune with his happiness, celebrating the chocolatey goodness in his mouth. He swallows, then nudges the plate toward Kahili.
"I used to only buy sweets like this when I accomplished something," Ardyn says. "If I aced an exam, or I picked
