Taipei Salon Counter Predawn Firelight

Muted gray light falls through a large window, casting a cool predawn wash over a worn reception counter in a Taipei salon row. Inside, a warm fire glows softly from a small hearth, illuminating the scratched laminate surface and the brass nameplate. The floor reflects the flickering orange flames in elongated, shimmering streaks. Winter clothing hangs on hooks in the background, heavy with cold. One ceramic cup sits near the edge, its steam invisible in the chill air. The counter shows signs of heavy use, with faint scuff marks and faded stickers peeling at the corners. Shadows stretch long across the empty floor, showing the quiet stillness of the early morning hours before the city wakes.