"Ouch!" Micah gasped, the ceramic mug slipping from her fingers and shattering against the floor in a splash of steaming coffee.

I set my own mug down on the counter instantly, stepping forward to ensure she was clear of the jagged shards.

"Are you okay?" I asked, my voice tight as my eyes raked over her.

"Yeah..." she muttered, biting her lower lip, her face burning with embarrassment.

She stood frozen, startled by how quickly the heat of the brew had caught her off guard. She had been so focused on hiding her reaction to my morning greeting that she had completely lost her concentration.

"I—I..." she stuttered, gesturing aimlessly...