er the space. Her eyes fluttered open, her mind still clinging to the memory of the day before. The walk

ool morning air greeted her as she stepped out of the hotel, invigorating and full of promise. Sophie hadn't t

of the day, vendors arranged colorful displays at open-air markets, and children's laughter echoed from a nearby pa

doned over the years-and began to write. Words poured onto the pag

g inspi

looked up to see Daniel standing nearby,

" she asked, surprised bu

ps curving into a small smile. "Did

said, gesturing to th

moment before sitting

osing the journal and setting

ime." He leaned back, his gaze sweeping over the par

he simple beauty of the scene. "It does.

said, his voice softer now. "It'

only by the rustling of leaves in the breeze. Sophie gl

" she asked. "Wh

something unreadable crossing his f

onely," she said,

ctive. "But it's easier than dealing

surprise. For someone so composed,

essy," Sophie said, a wry smile tugging at he

warm. "Maybe. I guess I haven't f

moment giving way to easy banter. Sophie found herself laughing more

y were walking through the city together. Daniel insisted on taking he

d Sophie felt an instant sense of belonging. She wandered through

Daniel asked, appearing bes

replied with a grin. "I

e handed her the book he was holdi

le aloud. "The Alchemist. I've

following your dreams an

nt to read it, and she added it to th

lighter, her bag filled with books and her hear

e. Over steaming cups of tea, they talked about everything and nothi

is voice thoughtful, "you'

ught off guard. "W

aid simply. "Most people cling to what's famili

ure how to respond. He had a way of seeing through her, of

have a choice,"

iel countered, his gaze steady

affirmation she hadn't realized she needed. Soph

u," she s

r w

eing..

nd in that moment, Sophie felt a connec

shade of indigo, stars beginning to dot the horizon. Daniel walk

hie," he said,

ight,

and a quiet thrill she hadn't felt in years. For the first time, she allowe