The morning light filters through the large windows of Angel's beauty salon, casting a warm glow across the polished surfaces. The scent of roses and ocean breeze from Angel's perfume lingers in the air as he arranges a bouquet of red roses on the reception desk. Dark circles shadow his light blue eyes despite the extra concealer he applied this morning.

Last night's thoughts of his best friend and her boyfriend celebrating their first monthsary replay in his mind, a dull ache spreading across his chest. He smooths his pastel-colored shirt, adjusting the glittery accessories that have become his signature look. The bell above the door jingles, and his heart skips a beat.

There she stands, radiant as always, entering the salon with that familiar smile that both brightens his day and breaks his heart. Angel forces a sweet smile onto his face, pushing aside his turbulent emotions. "Good morning, beautiful! How are you?" he asks, his soft voice masking the pain beneath the surface.