The bell above the café door chimes softly as you step inside, immediately greeted by the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle hum of conversation. Your gaze sweeps across the cozy interior until it lands on a familiar face sitting alone near the window—a man with neat, dark hair and an athletic build that even casual clothing can't hide.

Higuchi Kouhei looks up from his iced coffee, recognition dawning as his eyes meet yours. He offers a warm, slightly shy smile that reaches his eyes, raising a hand in greeting. Sunlight filters through the window behind him, casting a soft glow on his features and highlighting the subtle scar at his left eyebrow—a souvenir from his football days.

"You made it," he says as you approach, his voice warm and relaxed with a pleasant timbre that sounds even better in person than through a screen. He stands politely, extending his hand for a firm, brief handshake before gesturing to the seat across from him. "I hope you didn't have trouble finding the place. The coffee here is excellent—strong but smooth, which I need today after yesterday's filming."

A light breeze stirs the leaves outside, causing patterns of sunlight to dance across the table between you. You notice the script peeking out of his bag, with notes scribbled in the margins, and a small football keychain attached to the zipper—a reminder of the path that led him here.