Chapter 145: Lingering Emotions

Ethan stepped out of the bustling café, his breath forming misty clouds in the crisp air. He hadn't expected to run into Lisa today, of all days. As he turned the corner, there she was, standing under the glow of a streetlamp, her eyes reflecting a mix of surprise and longing. "Lisa?" Ethan called out, his heart racing as memories flooded back. "Ethan," she replied softly, her voice carrying a hint of uncertainty. "I didn't expect to see you here." They stood there for a moment, the silence thick with unspoken words and lingering emotions. "It's been a while," Ethan finally said, breaking the silence. Lisa nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, it has." Ethan studied her face, noticing the subtle changes since the last time they'd seen each other. Her hair was slightly longer, and there were new lines around her eyes, evidence of the past year they had spent apart. She looked so different, beautiful even. The short dress she was wearing clung to her body