(Michelle Lui's POV)
The café Lara picked wasn't too crowded — a quiet little spot in the Fushan district, halfway between our campuses. The air smelled like roasted coffee beans and cinnamon, and soft jazz played in the background.
I arrived first. Of course.
Being early was my default setting — punctuality, apparently, was the only control I had left in my messy emotional life.
I was halfway through my iced latte when Lara came in, practically glowing as usual. Her wavy hair was loosely tied, and she wore an off-shoulder top that screamed effortless confidence.
"Michelle!" she greeted brightly, waving as she headed to my table. "I missed you!"
I smiled, standing to hug her. "You saw me three days ago."
"Exactly. That's three whole days too long."
I laughed softly, shaking my head. "Drama queen."
She pouted dramatically. "You say that like it's a bad thing."
