The British Isles were graced with a gentle, light invigorate breeze, setting the stage for a day brimming with adventure and exploration. The thriving British economy, fueled by cutting-edge technology's mass production, soared to unparalleled heights. From majestic steam trains to opulent Cruise Ships, England stood hand on hand to a radiant and promising future.
Overwhelmed with pure bliss, Caleb embraced Nicollette tightly in his arms, his old friend finally placed in his warm clutches. The sight of her filled him with uncontainable joy. In return, Nicollette reciprocated the warm embrace, equally delighted to be reunited with his long lost friend. The two eagerly caught up on the events that had transpired in their lives over the past years.
Gazing at Nicollette, Caleb couldn't help but express his awe, "You have blossomed into an extraordinary individual... Your beauty radiates from within. I genuinely missed you, and having you here with me feels like an incredible dream come true."
Nicollette replied, her voice filled with genuine affection, "I feel the same way... Life hasn't been the same since you left. Director Yulia was fired and imprisoned after that day... I searched tirelessly for you, but there was no trace to be found. I'm grateful to see that you're doing well and living a healthy life now."
Caleb added, sincerity lacing his words, "And you... I missed you more than words can express... You have grown in ways I can hardly fathom! What happened to the other kids? Where are they now?"
Nicollette's reply carried a tinge of sadness, "Well, most of them were separated. After Director Yulia's dismissal, the orphanage was forced to close, and we were scattered to different facilities... But I ran away. I searched ceaselessly for you... I faced hunger most days, but a kind-hearted man always provided me with bread and butter after work. Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to help me lately. When I went to his workplace, they informed me that he had retired. Regrettably, I can't remember his name. They mentioned he lived somewhere nearby."
Caleb uttered sympathetically, "I'm sorry to hear that... He seemed like an extraordinary person. It reminds me of Mr. Watson, the man who took care of me. He was like a father figure... You see, they found me nearly lifeless in a pile of snow on Christmas morning. But they saved me. That night marked the beginning of my journey beyond the confines of the orphanage..."
Nicollette replied, touched by Caleb's story, "You know, I never truly believed in miracles until today. Time has brought us closer and closer, as if the universe is finally rewarding us... By the way, I would love to meet Mr. Watson and your brother..."
Caleb responded with a hint of sorrow, "Unfortunately, Mr. Watson passed away recently. He was a true hero and a blessing to all of us. It was incredibly challenging for me and my brother to cope with his loss. But he encouraged us to move to Liverpool and pursue grand projects to fulfill our dreams, despite the daunting circumstances... As for my brother, well, he's actually Mr. Watson's son. They found me outside the park, frozen in the snow, and took me in. They were the best family I could have ever asked for."
Moved by all that had transpired, Caleb couldn't hold back his tears. Witnessing Caleb's sorrow, Nicollette couldn't bear to see him in such distress. She embraced him tightly, and Caleb, finding solace in her warmth, reciprocated the gesture.
Subsequently, Nicollette and Caleb headed to the train station to meet Tristan. Caleb introduced Nicollette to Tristan, and Tristan welcomed her as a new friend. Filled with excitement for the journey that lay ahead, Tristan extended an invitation to Nicollette to join them on their adventure to Liverpool. Being an outgoing and open-minded individual, Nicollette gladly accepted, becoming an integral part of the two brothers' journey.
"Nicollette, why don't you join us? Let's all embark on this journey to Liverpool together," Tristan suggested, his voice resonating with hope.
"Absolutely! As long as I'm with you guys... Let's embrace this long-awaited journey!" Nicollette responded joyfully.
After a while, the train bound for Liverpool arrived. A magnificent steam engine with ten coaches awaited them. Two coaches were dedicated to luggage, one for coal and the engine, while the remaining coaches accommodated the passengers.
Nicollette, Caleb, and Tristan settled comfortably into coach number four. They continued sharing stories and catching up, relishing the breathtaking scenery unfolding outside their windows.
Every passing minute became a treasured memory for the trio.
As the moon ascended, Caleb and Tristan succumbed to sleep on the coach, leaving Nicollette as the sole wakeful passenger.
Nicollette rose from her seat and made her way to the train's balcony, moving silently and purposefully.
Sensing her departure, Tristan awakened and quietly followed Nicollette, observing her as she opened and closed the balcony door with utmost care.
Unbeknownst to Nicollette, Tristan discreetly positioned himself behind her, listening intently.
Nicollette retrieved a portrait of the mysterious benefactor who had supported her years ago from her wallet. She dearly missed him and wished she could express her gratitude once more. Sadly, she had been unable to find her mysterious helper.
Through the window, Tristan glimpsed the portrait in Nicollette's hands. It was his father, Mr. Watson—the man who had aided Nicollette all those years ago.
Overwhelmed with emotions, Tristan approached Nicollette, unable to contain his words any longer.
"Why are you here so late at night? Shouldn't you be asleep?" Tristan inquired, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Startled, Nicollette composed herself and replied, "Well, I didn't expect to find you here either... I was lost in my thoughts, reminiscing about days gone by. Life has been arduous for all of us, the lost children... It's so unjust, but we must forge ahead and hope for a brighter future."
Tristan got to the heart of the matter, his voice trembling, "That portrait... it's my dad... How do you know him?"
Puzzled, Nicollette wondered, "Him? He was the one who provided me with food every day, kept me clean, and taught me how to defend myself. I am forever grateful for his care and guidance. Are you certain it's him?"
Tristan replied, tears welling up in his eyes, "Of course, I recognize that hat anywhere... But he's gone now, and there's nothing we can do... All he ever wanted was for us to live our dreams. It was an act of selflessness, and I always hoped that one day he would learn to be selfish. It's been wonderful meeting you, Nicollette, and I hope you'll join us on our journey."
Nicollette, wrapping her arms around Tristan's shoulders, consoled him, "You too, Tristan... Caleb has told me so much about you, about how you saved him when he was left out in the freezing snow. You are truly a hero... I'm certain your dad, Mr. Watson, is looking down at you with immense joy and pride."
After a while, Tristan decided to give Nicollette some time alone, sensing her need for it. He made his way back to the coach.
Left alone, Nicollette took the portrait of Mr. Watson and tore it into tiny pieces, scattering them like dandelion seeds carried by the wind. She offered a silent wish for Mr. Watson's happiness in the heavens. Despite the devastation of losing a beloved figure, she knew it was time to move forward and make changes in honor of Mr. Watson's memory.
Soon, dawn broke, and Caleb woke Nicollette and Tristan. Together, they witnessed the town of Liverpool emerging on the horizon, its docks teeming with ships of all sizes. Filled with anticipation, the three friends exchanged smiles, eager to embrace the adventures that awaited them.