Eliza waved goodbye to Juan at the airport, turning away with a heavy heart. She nearly bumped into someone as she turned around.
"Oh, sorry!" She quickly apologized, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. As she looked up, she found herself staring into a pair of familiar eyes. "Manuel? What are you doing here? Off on a work trip?"
"Not at all." He reached out instinctively, steadying her with a gentle touch. "I came here just to see you."
Just to see her?
Eliza blinked, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Is everything okay?"
"I heard you've been feeling a bit down lately, so I thought I'd invite you for a hike." Manuel's voice held a hint of worry, fearing she might say no. He quickly added, "I figured you might want to have a chat with Master Henry."
Eliza's mind was indeed a whirlwind of thoughts. Master Henry, a wise soul, had once offered her guidance three years ago, and his compassion and insight had left a lasting impact.
With that memory in mind, she nodded internally. "Right now?"
"Yep, we’ve got time." His lips curled into a gentle smile.
Eliza gave a small nod, "Sure, why not."
She desperately needed to clear her mind, not just lose herself in the routine of everyday life.
The mountain loomed ahead, its peaks layered beautifully. As they reached halfway, a light rain started to fall, bringing a chill to the air and a hint of melancholy to the year’s end.
Without hesitation, Manuel shrugged off his coat and draped it over Eliza’s shoulders. "We're nearly at the top. Let's keep going before the rain gets heavier."
His voice was a comforting warmth against the cold.
Eliza glanced at him, a bit reluctant. "I’m okay, really. You should wear it; winter rain can be brutal."
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