“Table for one?” the waitress asked with a polite smile.
“Yes, please. Somewhere by the window,” I replied.
The streets of the city hummed with life as I made to sit at my table. I needed a moment of peace, a place to collect my thoughts before diving into the next phase. The familiar aroma of roasted coffee beans washed over me.
The world outside moved like clockwork, but inside, I was a swirl of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and a lingering uncertainty about what lay ahead.
The sound of a voice caught my attention. It was deep, familiar, and sent a shiver down my spine. Turning my head slowly, I saw him.
Jack.
He was sitting just three tables away, laughing with a man as he waited for his order. He didn’t notice me, but I froze, thinking if I should say or leave.
Just before
