Two days later, on a sunny afternoon in Cliff City, at a viral dessert café called Horizon Café in Gracefield District…

Under the brilliant afternoon sun, a steady stream of customers wandered across the beach outside, stopping to snap photos for social media. Under the parasols, many patrons enjoyed the café’s signature desserts and afternoon tea sets amid the lively chatter and bustle. But inside one of the café’s private rooms, an awkward silence settled in after an endless round of pleasantries.

“The weather’s really nice today.”

“Yeah, it really is.”

“Was there any traffic on the way here?”

“No, none at all.”

“You’ve lost weight.”

“Just a little.”

“Your skin looks amazing!”

“It’s the makeup…”

The woman sitting across the table sighed. She was dressed in a blouse and a pencil skirt. Her hair was neatly pinned up at the back of her head, and her light makeup only added to the gentle warmth that seemed to radiate from her naturally. She had the kind of presence that immediately put people at ease, making them want to pour out every worry weighing on their hearts. 

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