This story has all the makings of a great one, just like a good cup of coffee. Ashley sets up a solid and simple base with the premise. Nothing fancy, but it doesn't need to be.

The two main characters are where things get strong. They're impactful, memorable, endearing, and their banter easily sweeps you into the scene, influencing everything else with them. The cafe setting, side characters, and everything else works to complement them, bringing out the best moments: snark, joy, sincerity, and everything in between.

I don't have any real criticisms to levy here. It's clear a ton of care and effort went into crafting this. I'm sure if I tried looking long enough I could find something to nitpick, but I think I'd rather linger on the feelings this left with me.

If you have time and don't mind a bit of bitterness in your slice of life, I can't recommend this enough. It makes the sweetness of things so much more impactful, and the earnestness of it easily gives it a 5 star rating for me.