It was a typical rainy Tuesday morning in Charleston—gray skies and a slight chill in the air that made people move a little slower, as if the city itself was taking a breath. Will Collins had just moved from Boston, leaving behind years of familiar streets and his old job as a literature professor. He was excited but also a little lost, still unpacking boxes in his small apartment and trying to adjust to the slower pace of the South. The rain had messed up his plans for the morning, so instead of spending it organizing his new office, he sought refuge in a coffee shop that he had noticed on his way to work the day before—Maple & Pine. It was a cozy place, tucked between a vintage bookstore and a plant shop. The smell of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the earthy scent of old pages, and the low hum of conversations and jazz playing in the background created the perfect atmosphere for getting lost in thought. Will ordered his usual black coffee and found an empty seat by the window. It was peaceful, and he sank into his chair, opening his worn copy of Jane Eyre. He had read the novel countless times, but it was his go-to on days like this when he just needed something familiar. What he didn’t expect was to find someone sitting in his spot. Cathy Pierce was already at the table by the window, her headphones on, her sketchbook open. She wasn’t one to notice much around her when she was working, especially when she was designing. The café had become her second office, a place where she could focus away from the clutter of her apartment. She freelanced as a graphic designer, and Tuesdays were her day to get things done—sketching, brainstorming, and listening to music to help her think. When Will sat down across from her, he didn’t notice her right away. He was absorbed in his book, and it wasn’t until a soft voice interrupted his thoughts that he looked up. “You’re in my office.” He blinked, looking around to see who had spoken, and found her eyes on him with a raised eyebrow. “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize I was taking your spot.” Cathy removed one headphone and gave him a small, teasing smile. “It’s fine. Just don’t spill your coffee on my sketches, and we’ll be good.” Will chuckled and started to stand, feeling a little awkward. “I can move if you want me to. I didn’t mean to intrude.” “No need,” she said, waving him off. “You’re good. Just don’t get too comfortable.” Her smile softened, showing she wasn’t serious. Something about her easygoing nature made him relax, and before he knew it, they were talking. Cathy asked about his book, and Will explained that he was new to Charleston, working as a literature professor at the local college. She teased him about reading Jane Eyre in public, but they quickly found common ground in their shared love for stories—whether they were told through books or through design. As they continued to talk, the rain outside became heavier, but neither of them seemed to notice. It was the kind of conversation that flowed naturally, like they had known each other for years instead of just a few minutes. Before he left, Will hesitated for a moment. “Would it be alright if I came back next week?” he asked. Cathy raised an eyebrow but smiled. “Only if you bring a better book.” Will grinned. “Deal.”