The café fell silent. Only the faint clinking of spoons and the scent of coffee filled the air. I sat across from him, my heart still trembling.

His gaze was steady, more certain than ever:

“I don’t want to just be a mysterious friend anymore. The truth is… I’ve liked you, for a long time.”

Each word struck me like thunder. I clutched my cup tightly, my face burning hot.

“I… I never thought… that the mysterious friend was you, and… that you would…” I stammered, unable to hide the rush of joy swelling in my chest.

He reached across the table, taking my hand in his warm grasp:

“Give me a chance—not just to be an anonymous friend, but to be the one who’s always by your side.”

Tears welled in my eyes, a mix of happiness and emotion. I smiled through them:

“Yes… I like you too. I have, for a long time.”

And in that ordinary café, two hearts finally found each other.