t battle between their emotions-a war she wasn't prepared to fight. But Lucas didn't seem to shar

l morning air would calm her racing thoughts. The streets of the town were eerily quiet, a stark contrast to the lively memories she held. Her footsteps ec

still recall his laughter, the way he used to call her "little dreamer" whenever she s

otsteps behind her. Even before tu

u needed to think," he said,

ground, willing him to give up and leav

I deserve answers," he contin

riving for composure. "I have

nwavering as they met hers. "Ten years, Clara. Ten years I've spent wonder

? Why I abandoned you?" Her voice shook, but she pushed forward

he didn't look away. "If I broke you, Clara, then tel

. "It's not that simple, Lucas. There are things

ucas let her go this time, but she knew he wouldn't stop there. T

n't help but feel a pang of envy. Emma had found someone who understood her, someone who made her

are you okay? You've been so

ile. "I'm fine, E

g's bothering you, you can talk to me. I'm here fo

dn't share her true feelings-not with Emma, no

smile. "Alright. Just re

new the battles ahead w

inally, he found her sitting on the terrace, a book open on her lap. She wasn'

ng to disappear," he sa

ession strained. "I just w

ossed. "But we both know peace won't com

you just accept that some thin

se the past haunts me, Clara. And I know i

e waves-their days in this same garden, laughing and dreaming together.

p where Emma finalized the floral arrangements. Clara tried to focus on the moment, but her

in," Emma said, visibly conce

tly, caught off guar

e, you know. If something's w

t share everything. Not yet. "Ev

ed her concern. "Alright. But whate

agers. The memories of their friendship warmed her, but Lucas's presence lingered in her thoughts. Th

ave, she thought. B

m. "Clara," he said softly. She lifted her

id, her voice trembling yet firm.

filled with curiosity and appre