Alex rushed into the cozy corner coffee shop, breathless and damp from the unexpected downpour. As he shook off his umbrella, he scanned the room for a familiar face. In the corner, by the window, Sam was hunched over a book, oblivious to the world outside.
"Sam!" Alex called, hoping to catch their attention. Sam looked up, their eyes widening in surprise.
"Alex! I didn’t expect to see you here," Sam said, closing the book and setting it aside.
"I was just trying to escape the rain," Alex replied with a grin. "Mind if I join you?"
"Not at all," Sam said, motioning to the empty seat across from them. "I’ve just been lost in this book. It’s a great escape."
Alex settled into the seat, glancing at the cover of Sam's book. "What’s it about?"
"It's a mystery novel," Sam explained. "A detective trying to solve a case with nothing but a series of cryptic clues."
"Sounds intriguing," Alex said. "Have you figured out the mystery yet?"
Sam shook their head, smiling. "Not yet, but I’m getting close. How about you? How was your day?"
Alex sighed, his expression softening. "It’s been one of those days where everything seems to go wrong. But coming here and seeing you makes it all better."
Sam’s smile widened. "Well, I’m glad to hear that. And you know, if you need help figuring out your day’s mysteries, I’m here for you."
As the rain drummed softly against the windows, Alex felt a warmth spreading through him that had nothing to do with the steaming cup of coffee in front of him. With Sam by his side, even the grayest of days seemed a little brighter.