Chapter 117: The Promise of Adventure

The sun dipped below the horizon, setting the sky aflame in oranges and pinks. Olivia stood at the very edge of the rooftop garden—hands enveloped around a steaming mug of tea—watching as the city lights began to twinkle alive. Behind her, she could hear Nathan's footsteps, his excitement almost palpable before he had even spoken. "Liv," he called, his voice carrying in the evening breeze. "I have something to show you." She turned, curiosity overcoming reserve. There, Nathan stood beside a small table, a broad map stretched out before him and peppered with multicolored tacks and Post-it notes. His eyes danced to his calling hand as he seemed to invite her over. "What's all this?" Olivia asked, setting her mug down and leaning in to examine the map. Nathan's smile grew broader. "This, my dear, is our future." He began to point around, listing locations; the words then tumbled out of him in a flood of ecstasy. "See, we shall start in Paris for the exhibition. But that will only be