In a bustling, noisy city that never slept, a surprisingly vibrant and peaceful scene was unfolding at an apartment in the very center of it all.
It was a peace found among a wild sea of green, with vines, branches, and leaves full of life. Birds and sparrows happily chirped, building their nests in the branches. This unique place stood out from all the other balconies on the tall building.
Within this wonder stood Gwyneth Windsor, focusing all her attention on the plants and flowers.
"Your pot's a bit damp." Gwyneth paused in front of a small pot, carefully checking the soil and turning it over, her brows crinkling with concern.
"It seems you're uncomfortable with this pot, aren't you, sweetie? I'll get you a cozy one later," she said, as if the plant could hear her. Gwyneth tapped it gently on the side before putting it down.
To an outsider, the scene might have looked like chaotic nature growing in every direction, but to Gwyn, it was all in perfect order. She carefully tended and guided each branch and leaf into a specific pattern. She knew the position of each flower pot, the colors, and the days they would bloom. All these wonders were thriving on her balcony.
A gentle alarm broke her concentration. As if on cue, she stood up, removed her gloves, and put her tools down.
7:00 AM. Time to go.
Before leaving the balcony, she carefully put a handful of grains on the handrail, where birds were already flocking and pecking, familiar with the routine. After a satisfied smile, she turned back inside.
The apartment was simple and clean. One notable thing was the display scattered around the place. The frames of beautiful scenes and pictures were wooden, with intricate and lifelike designs. There were also all sorts of animal figurines, big and small, lifelike and extremely detailed. There was nothing modern about the place. It was almost as if you had stepped into a jungle where all kinds of animals were enjoying this small sanctuary.
Gwyneth took a quick scan of the room, put on a coat and her usual baggy clothes, and headed out of the peaceful apartment and into the crowded, chaotic city.
Gwyn hated the loud noises and the smell of damp air, but she didn't bother to wear a mask or use headphones. That would make her different from the rest, and she hated "being different."
The walk to the corner cafe, her usual first stop, was short. Gwyneth slipped inside, grateful to be out of the growing noise. As soon as she came in, it was as if a pause button had been pushed. A few customers who were talking to each other focused their attention on the entrance and didn't turn back. Some businessmen holding newspapers forgot to turn the pages. A staff member preparing to welcome the new customer stood frozen, mouth gaping.
Gwyneth did not notice the stir her entrance caused. She was trapped in her mind, thinking of the new day ahead, and quietly stood at the back of the short line. Her dark hair was pulled back simply, framing a delicate face. Her pale skin seemed to glow softly in the dim light, making her appear almost dream-like. But it was her eyes that truly held everyone's gaze. They were wide, soft doe eyes that took in the world with a gentle innocence, completely unaware of the quiet wonder she caused.
She stood patiently in the short line, practicing what she would say.
Melina would probably want a change of taste. Will she like a caramel macchiato? I don't like it hot, but that's okay.
Her expression was calm and serious. She was, as usual, completely unaware of the small ripple her presence created. It wasn't just her striking beauty; it was the feeling around her. She seemed to carry her balcony's peace with her, a bubble of calm in the morning rush.
"Good morning, Miss Gwyn!" Gina, the manager, chirped. "The usual?"
"Good morning, Gina. Yes, please," Gwyneth replied, mirroring the tone with a small smile. She was always happy to be remembered. But then she paused.
Oh no, that's not what I wanted to order. She won't be mad if I change it, right?
She nervously fidgeted with her hands, staring helplessly at the staff.
As if sensing her panic, Gina looked up and met her large, pleading eyes.
"What's the matter? Do you want something different today?" Gina asked gently.
Gwyneth secretly breathed a sigh of relief.
"Yes, please. Will that be okay?"
"Absolutely! What do we want for this week's coffee?" Gina asked, grinning.
"Oh, do you want one as well?" Gwyneth asked, tilting her head slightly.
"Ah, no, no," Gina said, followed by a light chuckle. "I mean, what would you like to order?"
"I want two caramel macchiatos, please. One large and one small," she replied, her eyes widening slightly in confusion.
Gina nodded, marked the cups, and went to prepare the drinks.
Gwyneth watched her move behind the counter, subconsciously hopping from one foot to another.
Her attention then switched to the condiment counter. Her smile slowly vanished, replaced by intense focus. The sugar packets were in a total mess. A slight crease appeared between her eyebrows. She glanced at Gina, who wasn't looking. Her fingers twitched.
As she waited, she drifted to the counter. Her hands darted out, quickly sorting the white, pink, and blue packets into three perfect, straight lines. She then straightened the stack of napkins, making sure their folded edges were precisely lined up.
The new barista, who had been staring at Gwyneth, saw this and hurried over, his face flushed. "Oh, miss! You don't have to do that, I can..."
"Shh," Gina whispered, nudging him hard in the ribs. "Let her. It's just her way. She's our 'unofficial morning organizer.'"
The new barista stared, fascinated, as she finished arranging the display, lost in her own world.
"She's... wow," he whispered back.
Gina grinned. "Right? Like something out of a fairy tale. Just don't expect her to notice you. She's in the zone."
"Two caramel macchiatos are ready, calling Miss Gwyn!" Gina called out cheerfully.
Gwyneth's head shot up, her organizing task complete. A look of quiet satisfaction was on her face as she walked to the counter and took the coffees.
She flashed a grateful smile at them both.
"Thanks, as always."
The new barista felt his heart do a little flip-flop. "You're... you're most welcome, Miss Gwyn! Please come again! Have a great day!" he blurted out.
Gwyneth just gave him the same polite, calm smile before turning and walking smoothly out the door. The bell on the door tinkled, breaking the spell on the customers who had been watching.
Once outside, Gwyneth focused on her next task: navigating the sidewalk. She held the two cups carefully, one for her and one for Melina, and kept her eyes down to avoid the jostling crowd. She made it to the bus stop just in time. The short ride was a familiar blur, and soon she arrived at her destination.