Chapter 48: Depths of grief: Liberated by dreams (47)
Becka's eyes flickered with surprise, the flash of uncertainty betraying her cool exterior. Starfania quiet authorities, fierce and unyielding, hung in the air like smoke from a dragon's breath-a subtle reminder she would not cower, and her flames would become a wildfire. Becka's eyes widened, surprised by the fire in Starfania's gaze, and she instinctively took a step back. In that instant, their eyes met, and Becka knew she had lost the battle this time. She averted her gaze, mumbling, " Alright, you win, " before walking out of Los Rosa Cafe. Just then, her friends, who had been watching with a mix of nervous anticipation, shot each other quick glances before they too abruptly left. Without a second thought, they bolted through the door, shouting, " Becka, wait! Don't leave without us! "
Amused, Daniel and Starfania exchanged a look, feeling like they just won a battle without causing harm to anyone. Out of nowhere, he pulled Starfania into a hug, and said, " Wow! I had no idea you had that kind of fire in you. "
Starfania gave a small blush as she playful shrugged, and with a sly smile tugging at her lips. " Well, sometimes it's good to keep a little courage up your sleeve. "
Daniel's face lit up with a mischievous grin, nodding in approval. " Haha, couldn't agree more- true words have never been spoken. "
Daniel's laughter filled the air. Soon Starfania felt a gentle tap on her shoulder and turned to see Samantha. She offered an apology for the disturbance, and Starfania reassured her that it was not her fault. With a visibly relieved smile, Samantha walks away, leaving them in their lighthearted mood. They both leave the cafe shortly afterwards as they wander. As they wandered through the quiet street, eventually finding themselves in a charming park. Settling onto a bench, they relaxed in the calm afternoon weather. Just as the day seemed perfect, they were interrupted by the sudden appearance of Daniel's coach.
His serious expression reminded Daniel that he had afternoon practice today and realized he was late. It had completely slipped his mind because of how much he was enjoying the day. He was quick to apologize to his coaches with a promise to not forget it in the near future. As he simply nodded in understanding, then asked him to follow him. Daniel glanced back at Starfania, and for a moment there was a lingering pause. Breaking the silence, Starfania said with a smile, " Looks like you have to go. "
He nodded, his tone genuine. " Yeah, but I really enjoyed today, Starfania. "
" Me too, " she replied warmly, feeling as though the world wasn't against her. As he gave her his charming smile and said, " We should do this more often. "
Starfania nodded enthusiastically, happy at the thought of more moments yet to come. Just then, his coach's voice rang out, " Daniel, let's go! The team's waiting. "
" Coming! " he shouted back, then turned to her with a grin. " Catch you later, Starfania! "