When Saying “Yes” Cost
The morning air inside The Shepherds Cafe carried that early-January stillness—soft jazz low enough to disappear into the clink of mugs, a few tired greetings at the counter, and the slow hush of people easing back into routine. Outside, winter light pressed against the windows like a pale hand, bright enough to expose every smudge, gentle enough to make the street feel unhurried. The calendar had turned, but the human heart, as usual, was taking its time.