deal

As we continued to browse, Lydia kept glancing our way, a mix of shyness and admiration on her face. Eventually, she approached us with a stack of books cradled in her arms. "I want you to have these," she said, her voice earnest. "They're some of my favorites, and I think you'll love them too."

We protested, insisting on paying, but Lydia shook her head vigorously. "No, please. It's the least I can do for the inspiration and joy your stories have brought me."

Reluctantly, we accepted the gift, each book a precious token of her gratitude. We thanked her profusely, promising to cherish the books and think of her whenever we read them.

As we stepped back into the street, the sky had darkened, the first stars beginning to twinkle. The city felt different now, more intimate and full of promise. We walked in silence for a while..

 Soon, we reached a quaint restaurant, its warm glow inviting us in from the cold.