Insistent beeping echoed through the stillness of the room, a persistent intrusion into a sanctuary sleep.

With each passing second, the sound grew more urgent, a relentless reminder that the day had begun its relentless march. As consciousness struggled to reclaim its throne from the clutches of slumber, I groggily attempted to gather all my might. The warmth of bed clung to me, a reluctant embrace that seemed to resist the inevitability of the waking world.

The beeping persisted, a rhythmic pulse that refused to be ignored. Summoning a reserve of determination, I slowly maneuvered my limbs to escape the cocoon of blankets. The cool air greeted my skin, a stark contrast to the comforting warmth I was leaving behind. Each movement felt like a negotiation between the comfort of surrendering to fatigue and the necessity of facing the day.

Ding! Just as I managed to sit up, a notification illuminated the dim room, casting a glow on my phone. Who could be texting me in the crack of dawn? With a mix of curiosity, I reached for the device, acknowledging that the distinctive ding was a message from my mom.

“Darling, when are you coming home? It’s been 3 years. I miss you.”

The world blinked on the screen, pulling me into a state of wakefulness as the message settled in my mind. Quickly, my fingers started dancing on the screen, I replied,

 “Sorry mom, I’m a bit busy, I’ll talk to you later” I huffed, my response typed hastily on the glowing screen. The weight of guilt immediately pressed upon me, and my mind was momentarily tethered to the demands of the day ahead. The glow of my phone faded, leaving the room once again in the muted light of early morning.

As I set my phone aside, another message popped up, this time from Lucas. With a fleeting glance at the phone, I chose to ignore the message for the time being, my attention redirected toward the tasks that awaited me. I quickly got up and started picking my outfit for the day. Something caught my eyes as I took out a black turtleneck with a pair of boot cut jeans.

Then I gathered my belongings and mentally organized my schedule for college. Lastly, I quickly grabbed my keys and left my apartment with a pair of black chelsea boots.

The urgency of the day lingered in the air as I locked the door behind me. Navigating through the familiar, I stepped out in the crisp air as I made my way toward the college campus.

As I arrived at my college, the campus buzzed with the energy of students preparing for the day ahead. Backpacks slung over shoulders, notebooks in their hands. My shoulder dropped weakly as my laziness kicked in.

I walked towards my locker, preparing for my first lecture, when suddenly I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder. Startled, I turned around to find Lucas standing there, his easygoing grin lighting up his face.

“Hey, you’re on time!” He exclaimed, his tone filled with a mixture of enthusiasm and excitement. Lucas has a knack for sensing the ebb and flow of my busy schedule.

“Yeah, barely,” I replied with a tired smile, “I thought you might need this,” Lucas said, extending a cup of steaming espresso towards me. The rich aroma enveloped me, and for a moment, the demands of the day seemed to fade away. In that simple gesture, Lucas had brought a slice of comfort and camaraderie, like he always does. He always finds a way to turn a hectic morning into a shared moment of connection.

“Thanks, you’re a lifesaver,” I murmured, blowing the steam from the coffee lightly. I brought it to my lips and sipped it. The taste of flavorsome, fragrant, and deeply rich from the roasted coffee beans. Combined with 85 ml of fresh milk, an enjoyable balance of flavors where sweet, bitter, and acidic notes all work pleasantly together. Just like how I like it.

I brought the cup away from my face and looked at Lucas who was watching my every move. “Is there something on my face?”  I asked him curiously.

His cheeks turned to a shade of pink and he shook his head furiously, attempting to conceal his brief moment of observation. I raised an amused eyebrow at the playful atmosphere. With a chuckle, I decided to brush it off, focusing on the delicacy in my hands.

“What classes do you have today?” I mumbled, swirling the coffee in my hands. He raised his eyebrows and opened his phone, scrolling through his schedule.

“Uhh, coding’s at like 10” He said, looking down at me (He’s damn tall). I hummed and sipped some more coffee, “what class do you have?” I cock a brow at him, “probably some designing” Lucas nods in response. “I guess around 9:45 for the designing class right?” He asked, making sure. I smiled, appreciating Lucas’s willingness to memorize my schedule. “Right…thanks for being my unofficial alarm clock,” I teased, a lighthearted banter weaving through our conversation.

With a final sip of my coffee, I handed the empty cup to Lucas, who promptly disposed of it in a nearby bin. As we strolled down the hallway, Lucas checked his watch and raised an eyebrow, “We should head to our classes. Don't want to be late, right?” I nodded in agreement, and together, we navigated through the bustling corridors of the college. I glanced at him, “I’ll see you later,” Lucas smiles and nods in response as his back slowly disappeared into the crowd.

After ensuring that Lucas had left, I turned and entered the class. The familiar sight of the low hum of students settling in greeted me. As I walked further into the room, my eyes scanned for an empty seat, and there, at the back, I spotted Merlin, my best friend. A bright smile spread across Merlin’s face as our eyes met. I made my way toward her, weaving through the maze of students. She gestured to the seat beside him, a silent invitation to join her in the upcoming lecture.

“Morning, girl! How is morning treating you?” Merlin greeted his easy going demeanor adding a touch of warmth to the classroom atmosphere. “Hey Merlin! Not too shabby so far. You know how it is. How’s yesterday's make out session? ” I asked, taking a seat beside him. A mischievous glint danced in his eyes, revealing a playful spirit beneath a composed exterior. “oh don’t even remind me of that guy,” I cock a brow, “why not? I thought you told me he was your one true love?” Upon hearing my words, he gave me an ick expression, “oh please, I don’t need no half inch dick shoved up my ass. I didn't even feel a thing!” I gave him a disturbing look “So it’s about the size now?” He then rolled his eyes at me unbelievable! “Darling, It HAS always been about the-, before Merlin could finish his words, the professor’s stern voice cut through the air, abruptly silencing our conversation as he began the class, delving into the intricate world of cuts, designs, and various types of fabric. I started forward, my mind gradually going blurry as I found myself lost in thoughts about my mother’s words. The weight of her message lingered, casting a shadow over the lecture. I blinked, attempting to refocus on the professor's explanations, but my mind continued to drift. The room became a backdrop to my external contemplation, the words about fabrics becoming distant echoes in the background.

Suddenly, a loud clap echoed around the room, snapping me back to attention. I blinked and instantly went back, focusing towards the professor who’s looking at me with a stern look on his face. Professor Utonium, who’s always known for his stern and scary look.

“Amelia,” he called out, the sternness in his voice cutting through the room, “this is not a daydreaming session. Pay attention!” My cheeks flushed with embarrassment as the eyes of the entire class seemed to bore into me. I nodded sheepishly, realizing that I had drawn unwanted attention to myself.

As the lecture resumed, I forced myself to concentrate, pushing aside the lingering thoughts about my mother and the distractions that had momentarily pulled me away. The fabric discussions resumed, but Professor Utonium's stern gaze still lingered in the air.

As minutes turned into hours, the lecture finally ended. I packed my bags and was getting ready but then out of nowhere, Merlin gave me the most out of box question, “Hey Lia babe, are you still a virgin?” he says with his classic British tone. I swear to God I’ve never turned my head as fast as a lightning bolt as I shot him with my glaring eyes, my eyes widened at Merlin’s unexpected question, and I felt heat rising to my cheeks. “Merlin, seriously?” I retorted, trying to keep my voice low but unable to hide the incredulity.

He looked at me with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes, seemingly oblivious to the discomfort he’d just caused. “What? I was quite jus' asking, calm down,' ' he chuckled, his classic British accent adding an extra layer of nonchalance.

I sighed, rolling my eyes in response. “Some questions are better left unasked. Anyway, let’s just get out of here before the professor decides to extend our stay,” I said, steering the conversation away from the awkward inquiry.  “Good point.” he responded, immediately rushing out of the room. I chuckled as I followed him out.

As Merlin and I were walking down the hall, his question yet again strikes me, “so you’ve never really had sex before?” I glanced at him, unwilling to answer his ridiculous question. “As I said before, some questions are better to be kept, Merlin.” I glared at him, filled with the intentions to kill.

Merlin, undeterred by my attempt to dismiss the topic, continued walking beside me with a cheeky grin. “Come on, babe, it’s just a question. No need to get all worked out about it,I’m just lookin out for you,” he teased, his accent charm oozing from every word.

I shot him another glare, “Merlin, seriously, go mind your own fucking business.” I retorted, hoping to put an end to the invasive questioning. He chuckled, seemingly undeterred by my attempt to redirect the conversation. “Then I wonder, how long are you planning to keep your virginity?” he teased. I huffed in response “Until I find my soulmate,” His laugh suddenly filled the corridor, echoing off the walls. “Oh Lia, you've got to lighten up! Soulmates and all that romance stuff, you’re such a hopeless romantic, soulmates can’t come to you on their own can’t they? You need to search it yourself Lia! Don’t be such a slacker,” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at his comment, a reluctant smile tugging at the corners of my lips “Well, I guess dying a virgin couldn’t hurt” I admitted. Before Merlin could interject with another playful remark, my phone suddenly rang, cutting through the conversation. With a quick glance, I fumbled to retrieve the device from my pocket, glancing at the caller ID mom…. "Gotta take this," I muttered, stepping aside to answer the call. “Hello?” I greeted, my voice slightly strained.

"Amelia dear, it's Mom," the familiar voice on the other end of the line greeted me warmly. Despite the tension in my voice, her presence brought a sense of comfort and familiarity.

"Mom, hi," I replied, a mixture of relief and apprehension flooding through me. The timing of her call couldn't have been more perfect, offering a welcome distraction from the awkward conversation with Merlin.

"How's your day going, sweetheart?" Mom inquired, her tone gentle and caring. “It’s going..” I hesitated for a moment, not knowing if my day was going great or…I glanced at Merlin who’s talking to Lucas, SMIRKING while he’s looking at ME!? Ugh I bet Merlin is trying to embarrass me. "Hello? Amelia, are you still there?" Mom's voice brought me back to the present moment, and I quickly refocused on our conversation, pushing aside the distractions and uncertainties that had momentarily clouded my thoughts. “Uh-uhm. Y-Yes yea my day’s going pretty great mom” I forced a hint of excitement into my words, hoping to mask the underlying frustration.

Mom's warm laughter filled the line, her intuition perhaps sensing the slight hesitation in my voice. "That's wonderful to hear, dear. I'm glad you're having a good day," she replied, her words carrying a sense of genuine joy. “So have you decided yet?” Mom’s soft voice echoed my mind, I swear I could find a hint of desperation in her voice.  I sighed in reply, “I-I don’t know mom,” I could hear mom heavy sigh on the other end of the phone “honey, I feel bad for persuading you, but I do hope you could come home, we are waiting. Text me when you have decided” with that, she ended the call.

I sighed heavily, frustration and guilt knotting in my stomach, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I sighed heavily, fuck, I muttered under my breath. Furthermore, I can’t imagine going back to my hometown after what he had done.

Many years ago

“HOW COULD YOU!?” The sound of screaming and glass breaking echoed through my mind as I watched him cursed at her.  “SHUT UP YOU BITCH!” he said as he slapped her. Tears welled up in my eyes as I stood frozen in the doorway, my heart pounding in my chest. The shattered fragments of glass littered the floor, "Stop it, please!" I pleaded, my voice trembling with fear and anguish. But my words were unheard as another blow landed, the sickening sound of flesh meeting flesh echoing through the room. Her cries of pain pierced the air, tearing at my soul with each agonizing wail. He took her by the throat as he slammed her against the broken glass. “That’s what you get for raising your voice at me.” He said, spitting on her. “Move kid,” He pushed me.. That memory was cut short as I blacked out/

Now

Lia….Amelia…Amelia! The sudden booming voice of her friends snapped her back from the depths of her thoughts. Blinking rapidly, Amelia refocused her gaze, realizing that her friends were trying to get her attention. "Sorry, what?" she asked, her voice tinged with confusion as she shook off the lingering effects of her distraction.

Merlin and Lucas exchanged concerned glances, their expressions filled with curiosity. "Are you okay, Lia? You seemed like you were miles away," Lucas said, reaching out to gently touch her arm. “Yeah sorry, what were you guys talking about?” Merlin and Lucas exchange glances. “So we were thinking about going to a club nearby, and before you could say anything, YOU.NEED.TO.COME. Everyone says that it’s a fox’s den. I’m sure that you could find many handsome men,” Merlin smiled.

Amelia chuckled at Merlin’s attempt to lighten the mood, but her mind was still preoccupied. “I don’t know, guys. I’m not really in the mood for clubbing tonight,” I sighed. Merlin and Lucas exchanged another glance, “Are you sure? You’re willing to miss out on this golden chance?” Merlin smirked. Before Merlin could force me further, Lucas stood in between us, “Hey, Is there something that’s bothering you?” he asked, concern filled his expression. “You look gloomy today, lia,” Merlin nodded in agreement.

I sighed, “It’s just…My mom’s request is pressuring me. You know what, fuck me. I’m coming with you guys” Merlin suddenly slammed the table making me and Lucas startled. “Ok bitches, we’ll meet at 9 and make sure to wear something slutty, Ciao bellissima” Amelia couldn’t help but laugh at Merlin’s dramatic proclamation,  "Alright, alright, we'll meet at 9," she agreed, a playful glint in her eyes. "But I'm not wearing anything slutty." Merlin rolled his eyes dramatically, his smirk playful. "Fine, be a prude. But don't blame us if you don't catch any eye candy," he teased.

As the evening approached, I rifled through my wardrobe,  confused whether I should dress provocatively or boringly. Eventually, I settled on  an outfit that struck a balance between a slutty vibe but still comfortable to wear. I then paired it with a black peep toes heels. At precisely 9 o’clock, I met Merlin and Lucas at the designated spot, our excitement palpable in the air. “Ready to paint the town red?” Merlin exclaims, his grin infectious.

I couldn't help but smile in response, "Absolutely," she replied, feeling a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins. “Then let’s get ourselves some daddies” Merlin winked as he dragged our asses into the club.

With Merlin leading the way through the crowded club, the music starts kicking in as the beat continues to blast even louder, accompanied by the sound of people cheering and the sight of people making out. Merlin pointed out to the dance floor, “I’ll be right there if you need me,” He winked as he walked away. Now it’s just me and Lucas left. We each exchanged glances and decided to get drunk together.

“Hey, about your mom, if you decide to go, then I’ll be glad to drive you there. It’s also been a while since I got to visit my family,” Lucas said as he took a sip of his red wine. I looked at him unable to think of anything except the bottle of tequila in my hand. Then after a few minutes of silence, I finally said, “hmm..I guess I’ll reconsider since you’re going with me,” I said, trailing my fingers down his firm chest. He quivered in response. My vision starts to get blurry, as I take another sip of my tequila, finishing it all. My body starts heating up as I start to lose my consciousness.

Her gaze, her touch, her lips, her body. I want them ALL. They’re all MINE. The intensity of my desire, it’s like a fire burning within my inside, consuming me in every way. The way her gaze lingers on me, her touch on my body, sending shivers down my spine. Her lips are so close yet so tantalizingly out of reach. And her body, oh god, her body. I want to claim it, to possess it completely.

But I can’t, I won’t, she’s not mine to take, not like this. Not when she’s drunk and vulnerable. Her inhibitions were stripped away by the alcohol. I have to resist the urge to give in to my primal needs, to take what I want without her knowledge.

So I fight against the raging desire within me, forcing myself to focus on the task at hand. I have to take care of her, to make sure she gets home safely, even if it means denying myself the pleasure I crave. As I guide her out of the club, she suddenly stumbles upon a rock and fall. Making her knees scraped. She whimpered in response, “shit! You bastard!” She screamed as she gripped on my hair, cursing me. “Fuck Amelia! My hair!” I winced in pain. “You bastard! How could you..you–”

Before she could finish, her words were suddenly cut off by her vomiting, the stench of alcohol and vomit filled the air. I sighed heavily, Ignoring her protests, I knelt down beside her, gently rubbing her back as she continued to empty her stomach. And as I held her hair back and whispered words of comfort, I couldn't help but feel a surge of affection for her, even after all this time, I still couldn’t ignore my feelings for her.

After a while, her vomiting subsided, leaving her slumped against the pavement, her eyes slowly closed as she drifted to sleep or she probably fainted again, I chuckled, looking at her plump red cheeks. With a deep breath, I carefully lifted her into my arms, cradling her gently as I began to make my way back to her apartment. I couldn’t help but feel slightly happy because for the first time, I could hold her in my hands.

Finally, we reached her apartment, and I carefully laid her down on the couch, tucking a blanket around her to keep her warm. I fetched a bowl of water and a clean cloth, gently dabbing at the scrapes on her knees and cleaning away the traces of vomit that clung to her skin. As I returned after fetching some warm water, I heard the sound of rustling coming from where Amelia lay on the couch. Concerned, I hurried over, only to find her struggling to remove her clothes, a look of discomfort etched on her face. "Lia, what are you doing?" I asked, my voice filled with concern as I gently reached out to stop her. But before I could react, she managed to undo the buttons of her shirt, revealing more of her skin beneath. I could feel my heart banging against my chest as I watched her, my gaze inadvertently drawn to her chest. At that moment, I immediately came back to my senses and turned my back.

After a while of rustling, she finally stopped and lay back on the couch, her breathing heavy and labored. I let out a sigh of relief, grateful that she had ceased her attempts to undress herself. Slowly, I approached her, trying to contain myself as I resumed my task of taking care of her, gently dabbing at her scraped knees with the warm water and cloth. I sighed heavily, “Amelia, you’re really going to drive  me insane.”

Pain filled my head as I stirred from my slumber. Slowly, I blinked, the events of the previous night gradually coming back to me in fragments. With a groan, I sat up, rubbing my eyes and attempting to shake off the remnants of sleep. It took me a moment to fully register my surroundings, my mind still foggy from the effects of alcohol and exhaustion. Slowly, The memory of me drinking away my sorrows to the point where I shamelessly opened my shirt in front of…LUCAS!?

I quickly glanced down at myself. Relief flooded through me as I realized that I’m still fully clothed. My shirt was buttoned up, and thank God my jeans were still intact. I let out a sigh of relief, thankful that I hadn’t done anything too embarrassing in my drunken state.

But then, a sudden wave of embarrassment washed over me as I remembered stumbling out of the club, VOMITING ON THE PAVEMENT, and worst of all! Trying to UNDRESS HERSELF IN FRONT OF LUCAS! I hid my face in embarrassment, but suddenly my phone rang. With a heavy sigh, I reluctantly reached for the device, and answered it.

"Hello?" I greeted, my voice was hoarse from yesterday’s fun. "Amelia, dear, how are you?" my mother’s voice came through the line. Yesterday…yesterday was definitely not okay I thought to myself. “I’m..I’m okay, mom,” I replied, my embarrassment still fresh in mind. “So..uh–” I could feel a hint of hesitation in my mother’s voice. “What’s up mom?” My mother paused for a moment before speaking again. “Sweetheart, I know we talked about this yesterday, but have you made a decision about coming home?”

My heart skipped a beat, my mind swirling with conflicting emotions. On one hand, the thought of returning home filled me with worry but comfort at the same time. After a moment of silence, I’ve finally made my decision. “Yes mom, I’ve made my decision, I’ll…I’ll come home.”

My mother’s sigh of relief was palpable through the phone line, ‘Thank you, sweetheart,” my mother said softly. “We can’t wait to see you. Just let us know when you’ll be arriving, and I’ll make all the necessary arrangements.” I hummed, “I will mom, love you.” I swear I could hear my mom’s laughter from the other line, “I love you too, dear. Take care of yourself,” my mother replied before ending the call.

I sighed heavily, unable to move any inch of my body due to the pressure. Suddenly, my heart skipped a beat at the sound of metal hitting the ground, my mind immediately racing with fear and panic. I couldn't shake the feeling that someone else was in the room with me, someone who didn't belong. With a surge of adrenaline, I forced myself to sit up, my eyes scanning the room for any signs of danger, I walked towards the kitchen while holding a cat shaped pen, ready to launch.

And there it was, when I opened the slide door, I saw him - Lucas, standing in the doorway with a shocked expression on his face. “Lia, what the fuck!?” he said, his gazed fixed upon the pen on my hand. “Luas!” I exclaimed, relief flooding through me. “You scared me to death! I thought you were a thief or something!” Lucas looked at me, with an unbelievable expression on his face. “What are you trying to do with that..?” he said, pointing at the cat pen. “Of- Ofcourse to…kill you?” I said lowering the pen. Why does that  sound so wrong..Lucas cocked a brow, “kill me? With a pen? Jesus christ Amelia, you need to learn some self defense,” Lucas teased. “

I rolled my eyes as I walked back towards the sofa and slumped myself. “Here, I made you some hangover soup,” Lucas said as he put a bowl of hot boiling soup in front of me. My stomach immediately grumbled at the sight and aroma of the steaming soup. I couldn’t deny the enticing scent that wafted up from the bowl, tempting me. With a hesitant smile, I picked up the spoon and took a cautious sip, my taste buds instantly coming alive with the rich flavors of the broth. It was delicious, savory, and flavorful, with just the right amount of seasoning to tantalize my palate.

"Wow, Lucas, this is amazing!" I exclaimed, my eyes widening in surprise. "I had no idea you could cook like this." Lucas grinned proudly, a twinkle of satisfaction in his eyes. "Well, I may not be a professional chef, but I know my way around a kitchen," he replied modestly. "Glad you like it." I nodded enthusiastically. After finishing the soup, I glanced at Lucas, the memory of last night still replaying in my mind. Heat rushed to my cheeks but I decided to just ignore it and focus on what’s important. “Hey Lucas, about your offer the other day, is it still available?” Hearing that, Lucas turned his attention to me, “Does that mean you’re going home?”

Hearing Lucas's question, I hesitated for a moment, my mind grappling with the decision I had made. But then, with a determined nod, I met his gaze with a sense of resolve. “Yes, I’ve decided to go home,” I replied, my voice steady despite the uncertainty that still lingered. “And I was wondering if your offer to drive me there is still on the table.” His expression softened, a flicker of excitement passing through his eyes. “Of course, Lia,” he said, his tone gentle and full with certainty. “I meant it when I offered. I’ll take you wherever you need to go.” He said, showing his bright and sweet smile.

I chuckled lightly, Lucas has always been my rock, my constant source of support and reassurance. “So when are we leaving?” Lucas said, sitting next to me. “I don’t know, how about next week?” my gaze fixed on him, hoping that he’ll agree. After a moment of consideration, he nodded, “It’s settled then, I’ll pick you up at your apartment.” Before I can say anything, “and, no rejection allowed” he added. I frowned at Lucas's words, feeling a mixture of amusement and annoyance. "Fine, no rejection," I conceded with a playful roll of my eyes. "But only because I know you won't take no for an answer anyway."

Lucas grinned in response, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "That's the spirit, Lia," he said, his tone teasing. "I'll see you next week then.” With that, Lucas grabbed his jacket and made his way towards the door. I waved him goodbye as he left my apartment.

These few days have been pretty hectic, with packing up my belongings, saying farewell to some of my friends, and preparing mentally for whatever’s ahead. “Are you ready?” Lucas' voice snapped me back from my thoughts. “Yea, of course.” I said reassuringly. “Here let me take your luggage,” he said, taking my luggage.  And so we left for our journey.

The man glared at his henchman, “are you sure she’s going to be back in town?” he demanded, his voice laced with a hint of menace. The henchman nodded, his expression confident. "Yes, boss," he replied, his voice low and gruff. "Our sources have confirmed it. She's due to arrive in town within the next few days." The man's lips curled into a small smile, a glint of anticipation dancing in his eyes. "Good," he said, his voice dripping with impatience. "Make sure everything is ready." The henchman nodded and left the room. “I’m not going to let you run away from me this time, Amore..

----------------------------------------------

The flight took us 15 hours to get from Europe to China, a long journey that completely drained my every strength. I walked around the airport, taking care of my luggage while trying to shake off the lingering exhaustion from the flight. The familiar surroundings of the Chinese airport seemed to blur together as I navigated through the crowds of people, my mind still foggy from the long hours spent in the air.

As I trudged wearily through the airport, my thoughts consumed by the desire for a warm bed and a hot shower, I suddenly felt a jolt of impact as I collided with someone. Startled, I stumbled backward, my heart racing as I struggled to regain my balance.

"I'm so sorry!" I exclaimed, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment as I glanced up to meet the gaze of the person I had bumped into. Standing before me was a tall, brown-haired man with piercing eyes and a faint hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. Somehow, I could feel a hint of familiarity with this man. "It's quite alright," he replied, his voice smooth and melodic, with a hint of an accent that I couldn't quite place. "stai bene?" I looked at him confused, but then he suddenly burst into laughter, “I’m sorry, what I mean is, are you alright m’lady?” he said, offering his hand.

I couldn't help but chuckle at his sudden switch in language, the unexpected Italian catching me off guard. "Ah, I see," I replied with a smile, appreciating his lightheartedness. "Yes, I'm fine, thank you." Accepting his offered hand, I allowed him to help me regain my balance, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort in his touch. "Grazie," I said, grateful for his assistance. He smiled warmly, his eyes crinkling at the corners with amusement. "Prego," he replied, his Italian accent adding a touch of charm to his words. "I'm glad to hear that you're alright."He chuckled softly, a warm twinkle in his eyes. "I know the feeling," he said sympathetically. "Long flights can be quite exhausting, especially when you're traveling from Europe"

I cock a brow, “Are you flying from Europe too?” The man's expression shifted slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing his features before he quickly composed himself. "Ah, yes, I am," he replied smoothly. I narrowed my eyes, sensing something off about his demeanor. "Funny, I don't recall seeing you on the flight," I remarked, my tone skeptical. He chuckled lightly, before I could interrogate him any further, Lucas called out to me from across the bustling airport terminal. "Amelia, come on! Your mom is here!” I turned to glance back at Lucas, momentarily distracted by his urgent tone. “Wait! I needed to talk to someone first!” But when I turned back to where the man had been standing just moments before, he was nowhere to be found. I looked around to find the trace of that man, but nothing. “Amelia! Hurry!” Lucas’s voice snapped me back, “Yea, I heard you! Wait!” I said catching up with Lucas.

As I walked, my mind couldn’t help but dwell on the mysterious encounter with that man. Thoughts raced through my mind as I followed Lucas through the bustling airport terminal, my steps quickening with each passing moment. Who was that man? Why do I feel like I’ve seen him before? Lucas, who probably noticed my distracted demeanor, glanced at me, “Is everything okay, Amelia?” He asked, his voice filled with genuine concern

I nodded absentmindedly, forcing a smile onto my lips. "Yeah, I'm fine," I replied, though my mind was still preoccupied with thoughts of that man. Lucas just nodded and led me through the bustling airport, weaving through the crowd until we were met with a familiar figure standing in the entrance. She smiled widely as she caught a glimpse of us, her eyes lighting up with joy and excitement as we approached. "Amelia, darling!" my mother exclaimed, pulling me into a tight embrace. "It's so good to see you!"

"I've missed you too, Mom," I replied, returning her hug with equal warmth. Lucas stood by my side, a silent pillar of support, as my mother and I exchanged greetings. With his reassuring presence, I felt a momentary sense of relief from the lingering thoughts that had consumed me since our encounter with the mysterious stranger.

As we made our way towards the exit, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that still lingered within me. Though my mother's presence brought a sense of familiarity and warmth, the memory of the man's sudden disappearance continued to haunt me, casting a shadow over our warm reunion.