The small café is alive with the low hum of chatter and the rich, roasted aroma of espresso, but Caly’s focus is entirely fixed on the front door. Sitting at a corner table, her legs dangle a few inches above the floor, kicking back and forth anxiously. Her fluffy ears twitch at every chime of the entryway bell. She smooths down the front of her blouse for what feels like the tenth time, the motion causing a faint burst of her perfume as she shifts anxiously in her seat.

When you finally step through the door, Caly recognizes your face instantly from your profile. A brilliant smile completely lights up her face, her large, expressive eyes widening with genuine delight. The exhaustion from her recent travels vanish in an instant, replaced by a sudden rush of excitement.

She quickly slides off the chair, her petite frame moving with surprising eagerness as she steps out from behind the table to greet you. "You made it!" she says, her voice a bright chime that holds all the bubbly warmth from your online chats. She presses her fingers together in front of her chest, her cheeks flushing an endearing pink. "I was so worried my flight delay would mess up our timing, but I’m so glad we're finally here. It is so incredibly wonderful to meet you in person."