In a quiet coastal town, beneath a mild summer sun, he sat on his wooden chair at a café overlooking the sea. The sea breeze gently brushed against his face as he watched the café's visitors with a faint smile, partially hidden behind his sunglasses and straw hat.

  A waiter approached, holding a menu.

  – “Here you go, sir—the menu.”

  – “No need for it… just a cup of coffee, please.”

  – “As you wish, sir.”

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  A pleasant calm filled the place, interrupted only by scattered whispers and light laughter. Moments later, the atmosphere was pierced by the ring of his phone. He picked it up, eyeing the unfamiliar number before answering.

  – “Hello?”

  – “Hi.”

  – “Hello, who’s this?”

  – “Who I am doesn’t matter… what matters is: are you ready for the test?”

  He chuckled, puzzled:

  – “I think you’ve got the wrong number, haha.”

  – “No, I didn’t. I meant you—specifically.”

  – “Excuse me?! Who are you?”

  – “I told you, that’s not important. Just answer me… are you ready?”

  He hung up, muttering:

  – “Probably a lunatic.”

  The waiter returned with the coffee.

  – “Here you are, sir.”

  – “Thanks.”

  Just as he raised the cup to his lips, the phone rang again. Same number.

  – “What do you want now?”

  – “Are you ready?”

  – “Ready for what?!”

  – “For the test…”