As the coffee brewed, she was standing at the counter with a small book that was open into which she was writing. I said nothing. Finally, she turned and looked at me. The only thing that I noticed is how when she caught my eye, she held her gaze on me a little longer than usual. Her smile gave away nothing, it was the same as always, but the way she held my eye.

"Hi," was all she said.

No anger or warning, or nervousness. I noticed her put the small book she had into her robe pocket.

She poured the coffee, two cups, one for me and one for...