Katie adjusted the strap of her school bag as she walked down the street after classes.
The evening air was cold.
She stopped for a second.
A black motorcycle was parked near the road.
Her eyes moved toward the rider.
Who was that guy…?
Something about him felt familiar.
Katie continued walking.
A few minutes later, she reached the small restaurant where her father worked.
Then she froze.
The same motorcycle.
The same guy.
That bike again… in front of Dad's restaurant?
Confused, Katie quietly entered.
Warm light and the smell of food immediately surrounded her.
Her father looked up.
"Oh? Katie, you're here."
Katie sat down.
But her attention wasn't on the food.
Her father noticed.
"Why do you look so worried?"
Katie hesitated.
"Wait… is he jealous about Jeremy?"
Her father almost laughed.
"Oh? Tian, you're here?"
Katie turned.
Tian stood there.
Calm expression.
Hands inside his coat pockets.
Katie blinked.
Tian…?
Her father sighed dramatically.
"That kid… I heard he's staying alone. Go see him once, he must be hungry."
Then he leaned closer.
"And take these side dishes too. He may not have money to order more."
Katie stared.
"Dad…"
"Okay, okay. I'll take care of it."
A few minutes later—
Katie carried warm food toward Tian's table.
"Here… for you."
Tian looked slightly surprised.
For a moment—
Neither spoke.
Then Katie quietly stood up.
"Take care, Tian."
"Bye, Dad."
She walked toward the exit.
Outside—
Cold air again.
Katie stopped.
Something felt strange.
She slowly looked back.
Through the restaurant window—
Tian was still watching her leave.
Katie lowered her eyes.
I smiled first…
And without understanding why—
Her heart suddenly felt lighter.