I pushed the door open, unable to keep the smile—or the quiet pride—off my face as I stepped into Cookies ‘n Coffee. The familiar chime of the bell rang out above me, followed by the warm hum of conversation and the clinking of cups meeting saucers.
My café wasn’t big by any measurement, but it was mine. And I loved it.
The front windows were lined with cozy benches, each one covered in soft pillows and blankets, creating the perfect space for customers to curl up with a book or chat over coffee. Long, communal-style tables stretched across the main floor right along the benches, their rustic charm making the whole place feel warm, lived-in. There were a few more tables scattered throughout—on the right side, a long wooden table that could comfortably seat eight, though if people squeeze
