Early morning sunlight poured through the open blinds of Sophie's Diner.
The quiet hum of the city waking up outside was muted here, replaced by the comforting, domestic rhythm of a morning diner. It was a peaceful contrast to the high-stakes madness, deafening crowds, and earth-shattering explosions that had defined the academy arena just twenty-four hours prior.
Cindy, wearing her usual apron over her work dress, was wiping down a booth near the window when the bell above the front entrance chimed.
Ding-Ding
Glancing up, her face immediately lit up with a bright, welcoming smile.
"Kurt! Hi! What a nice surprise!"
"Morning, Cindy. This place is pretty empty as usual, huh?"
"Haha. Don't let Sophie hear you say that."
He walked leaned over the counter to peer straight into the sizzling kitchen. "Morning, Sophie! Your one and only customer is here! As usual!"
"Wha–?! K-Kurt–"
