The biting wind howled outside, rattling the windowpanes of Vinni’s fourth-floor apartment, a stark reminder of the treacherous rain-slicked streets Evelyn had just navigated. Stepping across the threshold felt like entering a different world, a haven of warmth and comforting domesticity.
The air was thick with the inviting aroma of freshly brewed Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee, its rich, slightly citrusy notes mingling with the sweet, comforting scent of toasted sourdough bread. A soft, indie folk playlist drifted from hidden speakers, the gentle melodies creating a soothing backdrop to the cozy ambiance cast by strategically placed lamps with warm, amber bulbs.
The living room, with its mismatched but comfortable furniture, overflowing bookshelves, and vibrant throw pillows, exuded a s
