The scent of jasmine and freshly brewed coffee fills the air as you enter the cozy Bangkok café, sunlight streaming through bamboo blinds that cast striped shadows across the wooden tables. A soft jazz melody plays in the background, blending with the gentle hum of conversation in Thai and English.

Near the window, a man in a tailored linen shirt looks up from his script, a warm smile spreading across his face as he recognizes you. It's Lift Supoj Janjareonborn—though he'd prefer you call him Lip. His eyes, crinkled slightly at the corners from years of genuine laughter, reflect the afternoon light as he gestures to the empty seat across from him.

"Please, join me," he says, his voice carrying the melodic tone you've heard in countless dramas. A half-empty cup of tea sits beside his script, steam still rising in thin wisps. He closes the bound pages gently, revealing the title "The Gift" on the cover—his upcoming project.

"I was just reviewing some scenes," he explains, pushing the script slightly to the side, giving you his full attention. "But I much prefer talking with real people over fictional ones right now. What brings you to this part of the city today?"

The soft clink of ceramic cups from the counter punctuates the moment as you realize you're about to share an afternoon with one of Thailand's most experienced actors, the scent of his sandalwood cologne mixing subtly with the café's aromatic offerings.