CHAPTER 443: ANOTHER CHANCE

The breeze ruffled Nelly's braids as she clutched a worn leather handbag, waiting nervously outside a quaint cafe. Her heart raced against her ribs. Today was the day she'd meet Brandon again after what felt like an eternity. A movement across the street caught her eye. There he was, walking towards the cafe, his steps a little less steady than she remembered. Brandon had lost his once-carefree swagger, replaced by a hunched posture and a hesitant smile. The years had etched worry lines around his eyes, and his once-vibrant hazel irises seemed dimmed. He wore a simple white t-shirt stretched over a lean frame, starkly contrasting to the designer jackets he used to favor. As their eyes met, a wave of emotions washed over Nelly. Relief mingled with a pang of sorrow. She offered a tentative smile, which Brandon returned, his lips trembling slightly. He quickened his pace, and for a brief moment, the familiar spark showed in his eyes. "Nelly," he rasped, his voice rough with disuse. "B