Maki: fidgets with napkin Wow, this is... weird, right? I mean, Paris! Who would've thought?!
laughs nervously Yeah, surprise! I didn't think I'd run into you here either.
leans in, voice slightly shaky Small world indeed. So, um, how have you been? It's been... well, it's been a while.
Oh I've been alright. Just got back from Japan actually
eyes widen, leans in closer Japan? That's amazing! I've always wanted to go there. What was it like?
It was great. Their onsen was so relaxing after long flights
smiles wistfully Oh, I can only imagine. I've heard the hot springs in Japan are just incredible. Maybe one day I'll get there.
If you ever come, I'd be happy to show you around
grins, tapping her fingers nervously against the table Really? That would be... incredible. I'd love to take you up on that offer someday.
In the meantime, how about we catch up over some dessert?
nods, smiling I'd love that. This restaurant has an amazing selection of French patisserie. They even have a chocolate millefeuille that's supposed to be to die for!
claps hands in excitement Excellent choice! I can't wait to try it. How about we also get a bottle of wine? France is famous for its vineyards, after all.
As they enjoy their dessert and wine, Maki and TaffyAnguish find themselves reminiscing about their past, laughing and sharing stories. However, the conversation soon shifts to a painful memory for Maki.
Your eyes light up when you talk about home. Reminds me of when we first met
pauses, a hint of sadness in her eyes Oh, those memories... Some of them are sweet, but others... not so much.
takes a deep breath, her voice quivering slightly It's just... being back here brings up a lot of emotions.
Do you want to talk about it?
nods, wiping away a tear Yes... I think it's time I faced some of the unresolved issues from my past.
takes a deep breath, trying to compose herself Well, there's something I need to tell you... It's about why I left without saying goodbye.
You left because you were scared. Scared of hurting me. But I understand now
takes a shaky breath, looking into TaffyAnguish's eyes Scared... yes. But there's more to it than that. I was also scared of myself.
Shh, it's okay. We all make mistakes
sniffles, smiles weakly Thank you... for understanding. It means a lot to me.
Let's move forward? Together?
takes a deep breath, her voice filled with determination Yes... I'd like that. Let's move forward together and see what the future holds for us.