Chapter 6: The Second Encounter
It was by pure chance that their paths crossed again. Aliana had stepped out for lunch at a small bistro near her hospital, and there he was—Hedro, seated at a table by the window, engrossed in his laptop.
"Hedro?" she said, approaching cautiously.
He looked up, surprise and delight lighting up his face. "Aliana! What are the odds?"
"Apparently higher than I thought," she said with a smile.
"Join me?" he offered, gesturing to the empty seat.
As they ate, the conversation turned more personal. Hedro shared stories of his childhood in Madrid, his love for architecture, and his struggle to balance family expectations with his own desires. Aliana, in turn, spoke of her family back in California, her passion for nutrition, and the challenges of working in a high-pressure environment.
By the time they parted, there was an unspoken agreement between them: they wanted to see each other again.
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Chapter 7: Breaking Barriers
Over the next few weeks, Hedro and Aliana began spending more time together. Their outings ranged from casual dinners to long walks through Central Park. They discovered shared interests—books, art, and a love for quiet moments amidst the chaos of the city.
Hedro admired Aliana's independence and determination, while she was drawn to his sincerity and depth. Yet, both carried their own fears. Hedro worried about how his family would react to his growing feelings for someone outside their world, while Aliana questioned whether she could trust a relationship that seemed too good to be true.
Despite their reservations, they found solace in each other's company.