Elena sat by the window, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the rim of her coffee cup. She hummed a soft, bittersweet melody, her eyes fixed on the street outside where people hurried by under umbrellas. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, each note she hummed carrying a piece of her journey.

Elena closed her eyes, letting the music flow through her. The melody intertwined with memories of love and loss, conjuring images of joyful moments and painful farewells. Her heart ached with a longing that only music seemed to understand. "It's all in the song," she whispered to herself.

Max approached with a friendly wave, his presence bringing a sense of comfort. "Hey, sorry I'm late," he said, taking a seat across from her. Elena returned his smile, grateful for his company. "It's okay, Max. I was just...lost in thought," she replied.

Max leaned in, his expression turning serious. "You've been working on something new, haven't you?" he asked, gesturing to the scribbled notebook in front of Elena. She nodded, a hint of vulnerability in her eyes. "Yes, it's a hello song—something that's been on my mind for a while," she confessed.

Elena picked up her pen and began jotting down lyrics, her thoughts flowing freely. Max watched her with admiration, knowing the power music held for her. "It's beautiful how you turn emotions into songs," he remarked softly. Elena smiled, feeling understood.

Elena set down her pen, her heart lighter than before. Max gave her an encouraging nod. "Let's hear it," he urged gently. With a deep breath, Elena began to sing, her voice weaving a tapestry of hope, longing, and new beginnings—the song of a hello.