The clinking of the porcelain
drowns out the sound of chatter.
Raindrops knock against the windowpane,
unwelcome in a welcoming place.
The fire crackles by the corner,
devouring, licking the wood,
enveloping the room in its warm embrace.
The autumn chill is swept away
by the hungry flames.
Aroma of bittersweet coffee tantalizes the senses and
lures, trapping customers in a cage of
round wooden tables and little oak chairs.
The room is bathed in dim light,
emitting an ambience not unlike home.
Hot mug between hands, steaming,
the heat spreads,
travelling through the bloodstream,
warming up the body, and engulfing the heart.
One sip burns the tongue,
scorching the taste buds;
dark roast coffee, one sugar, splash of milk.
Last dregs of coffee stain the mug,
the last grey clouds making way for the
sunshine.
One long sigh, two empty mugs, three steps
to the door.
–parneet