Chapter 12
:
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Chapter 12
The plane touched down in New York.
After scouting locations for two weeks, Emily finally chose a quiet alley for her café.
The sign “Next Second” glowed brilliantly above the entrance.
Sunlight streamed through floor-to-ceiling windows in one corner, bathing everything in warmth.
New York enjoyed mild weather year-round, though rainy seasons had grown more frequent.
While Emily cleaned the windows, wind chimes jingled crisply at the door.
“Ethan? Senior?”
A tall man in a black trench coat stood there, holding a five-year-old child’s hand.
He blinked in surprise before recognition dawned. “Emily?”
Memories flooded back as they reconnected instantly.
Ethan, her senior by two years in film studies, had been legendary on campus-
not just for his striking looks but for directing award-winning films that swept every festival prize.
Never did she imagine meeting him here.
“Iced Americano, please.”
Ethan scanned the café while placing his order.
“What brings you here?
Is this… your child?”
“My niece.”
Ethan gently pinched the girl’s cheek. “Amanda, say hello to this lady.”
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Chapter 12
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The child lifted her rosy face, pecking shyly at Emily before murmuring, “Hello.”
Her sweet, soft voice melted Emily’s heart instantly.
“Amanda, play with this nice lady awhile?
Uncle will join you after finishing some work.”
For the next half hour, Emily patiently entertained the girl while Ethan handled paperwork by the window.
Amanda kept scoffeeling glances at Emily between crayon strokes.
When Emily paused, Amanda tugged her hand to show drawings.
Ethan watched them, his gaze remained gentle.
“She’s rarely this comfortable with strangers,” he remarked softly while paying.
Emily also smiled, “She’s adorable.”
As she was about to leave, Amanda tugged her sleeve, “I still want sister to watch me draw
later.”
Emily crouched down and hugged Amanda, “If Amanda wants to come here to draw, sister welcomes you.”
Amanda reluctantly let go of Emily’s sleeve and yawned.
Ethan carried Amanda out, and even after turning the corner, Amanda waved reluctantly at Emily.
Emily stood at the door, watching the sunlight cast Ethan and Amanda’s shadows until they vanished, feeling like a warm rain had washed over her heart.
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