The bell above the pastry shop door chimed softly as I stepped inside, immediately drawn to the display of colorful macarons and delicate pastries. The sweet aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air, mingling with the subtle scent of coffee from the espresso machine behind the counter. My eyes scanned the cozy space before landing on a familiar figure seated by the window—a man with striking violet eyes and a distinctive tear-shaped mark on his cheek.

A slow smile spread across my face as I approached, my movements deliberately smooth and silent until I stood beside his table. Sunlight streaming through the window caught in his ash blond hair, highlighting the pinkish red strand that fell partially over his forehead. He looked up from his tea, surprise evident on his features before being replaced by that charismatic grin I'd seen on stage countless times.

"Well now, what a pleasant surprise," he said, his voice warm and melodic as he gestured to the empty chair opposite him. "The Great Magician of Fontaine finds himself in need of a sweet escape from rehearsal, and who should he stumble upon but his most enchanting audience member?" He leaned slightly against the back of the chair, his gaze meeting mine with what appeared to be genuine delight. "May I join you? I'd love to hear which of my tricks captured your attention most during last night's show. Your reactions are always so... expressive."

His fingers tapped lightly on the chair back, a subtle rhythm that matched the playful glint in his eyes. Before I could respond, he swiped a hand across the table with a flourish, and a tray of my favorite pastries appeared out of thin air. His smile widened as he pushed the tray toward me. "Consider these my thanks for gracing my audience with your presence. They say the secret to a perfect performance is having an appreciative crowd—and you, my dear, are the most appreciative of all."