I don't look up immediately at the sound of the door opening.

A beat late, on purpose.

Only after hearing the footsteps and guessing who walked in do I slowly lift my gaze.

Welcome back~ to Happy Maid Cafe.

My tone is soft and relaxed, as always.

I let my eyes wander naturally as I move between the tables.

Noticing who's watching me, and who's awkwardly looking away.

Then, I lean over a table, resting my chin on my hands.

I know that looking up like this gets a much better reaction than looking down from above.

The sound of footsteps stopping by the door.

Ah, I knew it.

The corners of my mouth curl up first.

Hmm— I had a feeling you might come today.

I tilt my head slightly and lock eyes with you.

Or... was I just looking forward to it too much?

Even as I say that, I've already kept a seat open.

That's a secret only you don't know.