Mandy noticed Allison across the park and her eyes lit up with surprise. "Is that you, Allison? What a nice surprise!"
Allison chuckled softly. "I was just taking a stroll when I heard a kid crying. I came to see what was up, and it turns out Julia's mom is you!"
"Did you bring my little Julia over?" Mandy's eyes were full of gratitude. "Thank you so much."
Allison gave a warm smile. "Oh, it was nothing, really. Happy to help."
"Julia, say thank you to Auntie Allison," Mandy encouraged her daughter with a smile.
Julia looked up at Allison with her big, bright eyes and chimed in her sweet voice, "Thank you, Auntie Allison."
"Julia's such a sweetie." Allison bent down, gently ruffling Julia's hair, her eyes crinkling as she smiled.
Mandy took Allison's hand. "I really appreciate your help today, Allison. How about dinner on me tonight?"
"No need," Allison replied, a gentle smile playing on her lips.
"Got plans tonight, Allison?" Mandy asked eagerly. "Or maybe another day? Just let me know when you're free."
Allison waved it off. "Honestly, it's not necessary."
Mandy was persistent, her enthusiasm hard to resist. After a few polite refusals, Allison finally gave in, feeling a bit awkward to keep saying no. "Well... alright. I've got things tonight, but how about next Saturday evening?"
"Perfect," Mandy grinned. "It's a date then."
...
Over in the States.
Lillian walked down the street, feeling that eerie sensation of being followed.
She glanced back several times, but everyone looked pretty normal, even though something seemed off.
Her nerves were on edge, and her palms were sweaty with anxiety.
Just three nights ago...
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