Chapter 130: The Decision

The café was thick with the morning rush of traffic, the smell of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries heavy in the air. Olivia sat at a corner table, her fingers wrapped around a steaming mug, while her heart pounded within her chest in a quick, raspy rhythm. She chose this public place on purpose in hopes the hum of background noise might quiet her nervousness. It didn't. The little bell above the door rang, and Olivia began to rise as she saw Nathan striding through the doorway, flashing his bright smile as he caught her in his sights. She finally stood to meet him, catching his warm embrace and quick peck on the cheek. "Liv," he said, scooting into the chair opposite her. "I've missed you. Have you?" he trailed off, his eyes flashing with both hope and trepidation. "Have you made a decision?" Olivia steeled herself and took a deep breath. "I have, Nathan. But before I tell you, I want to tell you how important you are to me and how grateful I am for everything we have shared.