The Rise of Lucas

Chapter 77

Several weeks had gone since the silent night when Lucas had interfered to assist Lilian. Life, like an unforeseen stream, had swept them along, each on their own individual pathways. On a seemingly typical morning, destiny spun its strands, bringing them together again in the unlikeliest of places—a small café situated in the center of the city.

Lucas sat at a corner table, drinking his coffee and leafing through a newspaper. The perfume of freshly made coffee lingered in the air, blending with the unspoken energy of the crowded café. As he lost himself in the wordless loneliness of the morning ritual, the entry door chimed, announcing the approach of a new client.

To his astonishment and happiness, Lilian strolled inside the café, her gaze scouring for an open seat. Their gazes connected, an unconscious connection sizzling between them. In that spontaneous moment, a real grin touched Lilian's face, and Lucas felt a feeling of warmth and familiarity.

Lilian approached his table, and