Chapter 12

It was November in Norhaven, and the first snow was coming down especially hard. Phyllis let out a small puff of warm air, pushed open the cafe door, and immediately spotted her best friend, Alexis Bell, waving at her. "Lissy, it's been so long! I've missed you so much," Alexis exclaimed, running up to wrap her in a hug, her tone carrying a playful whine. For a moment, it felt like being back in their college days. Phyllis sighed and said with a mix of exasperation and affection in her voice, "That's enough. Didn't I come to see you the very first thing after getting my award?" Alexis had been her college roommate, and they'd become friends due to their shared interests. Later, Phyllis chose to marry Nathan, balancing her marriage and career, while Alexis went abroad for further studies. Over time, they'd gradually lost touch. However, their bond had never changed, no matter how much time passed. After a brief hug, they sat down together by the window. Alexis took a sip of coffee