When Paths Collide

Claire stepped out of Titan Edge Global, her heart lighter than it had been in weeks. The interview with Nathan Chase had gone smoothly. His insights into the world of cybersecurity and his journey to success had been captivating.

As she walked down the street, she pulled out her phone and dialed her editor, Mr. Collins. He picked up on the second ring.

"Claire, how did it go?" Mr. Collins asked, his voice filled with anticipation.

"It went well, sir," Claire said with a small smile, weaving through the crowd. "He was candid, insightful, and surprisingly humble. I got everything I need for the story."

"Excellent!" Mr. Collins' voice carried the weight of relief. "That interview was a big deal. I knew you'd handle it."

"Thank you, sir," Claire replied, glancing at the time. "I'm thinking of grabbing a cup of coffee before heading back to the office."

"Go ahead," he chuckled. "You've earned it. But don't stay out too long, I want a draft on my desk by the end of the day."

"Understood, sir," she said, ending the call.

With that, she turned in the direction of the Java Brew Coffee Shop, only a few blocks away. The idea of a warm coffee sounded like the perfect treat after a successful interview.

---

Ethan sat at a corner table by the window, his eyes casually scanning the street. The warmth of the coffee shop offered a welcome break from the world outside.

He checked his phone and smiled as he sent a message.

> "I'm at Java Brew, close to your office. Come join me for a cup of coffee?"

Moments later, his phone buzzed. Amelia had replied.

> "On my way. Be there soon."

A soft smile tugged at his lips. He leaned back in his chair, his gaze drifting toward the window. It was a peaceful moment — one he hadn't realized he needed.

But peace is often short-lived.

The soft chime of the doorbell drew his attention. He glanced up — and his breath hitched.

Claire had just walked in.

She didn't see him right away. Her eyes were focused on the menu board as she joined the line of customers. She looked composed, though her fingers tapped lightly on her phone. She seemed to be in her own world.

Ethan felt a strange pull. His heart beat faster, his thoughts suddenly unsettled. He hadn't expected to see her, not like this.

His eyes stayed on her, unable to look away. Don't go over there, he told himself. Stay seated.

But when Claire's eyes shifted and caught his, it was too late.

Their gazes locked.

Her face didn't change much — no smile, no frown. Just quiet recognition. She glanced away as if it meant nothing.

But to Ethan, it meant everything.

He stood before he even realized it.

Claire joined the short line, her eyes fixed on the menu. She knew Ethan had seen her, and she knew he was coming. She tried to steady her breathing, forcing herself to stay calm.

The familiar ache returned to her chest. She hadn't spoken to Ethan in months, and now, here he was, in front of her again.

"Claire," his voice came from behind her, soft but clear.

Her spine stiffened. She closed her eyes briefly, drew in a breath, and then turned to face him.

"Ethan," she greeted him with a polite nod. Her tone was cool, distant.

He stepped forward, hands in his pockets, his gaze fixed on her face. "How have you been?"

Her gaze shifted toward his hand — and her heart clenched.

The silver band on his ring finger gleamed like a warning sign.

Her lips pressed into a thin line as she fought to contain the pain rising in her chest. He's married now, she reminded herself. He made his choice.

Her voice came out flat and controlled. "I'm fine."

Ethan studied her, his eyes narrowing slightly. He must have noticed the shift in her demeanor, but he didn't mention it.

"Still at Insight Daily Media?" he asked, his voice low, like he was treading carefully.

"Yeah," she replied, shifting her attention back to the counter. "Still there."

He nodded slowly. "That's good. You were always good at it."

She glanced at him briefly, her eyes unreadable. "Thanks."

Silence followed. It wasn't the comfortable silence they used to share — this one was thick, heavy with words unsaid.

"Order for Claire!" the barista called out.

Her eyes flicked to the counter. She was grateful for the escape. She stepped forward, grabbed her cup, and turned back to him.

"Take care, Ethan," she said, her tone sharp but polite.

Her eyes didn't linger on him this time. She turned and walked straight for the door.

Ethan watched her leave, his chest growing tighter with every step she took. There was something final about the way she walked away. He hadn't expected it to hurt this much.

Another soft chime from the bell above the door drew Ethan's attention.

This time, it was Amelia Reed. Her eyes scanned the room until they landed on him, and she smiled brightly as she walked over.

"Hey, handsome," she said playfully, tilting her head to the side. But her gaze shifted toward the door just as it was closing behind Claire.

"Was that Claire Bennett?" Amelia asked, her brow raised in surprise.

Ethan's eyes darted to the door and back to her. "Yeah," he said quietly.

Amelia glanced at him, her playful smile fading into a look of concern. "You okay?"

He hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck. He wasn't sure how to answer that. For the first time in a while, he genuinely didn't know.

"I don't know," he admitted.

Her face softened. She stepped closer, her hand resting lightly on his arm. Her eyes searched his face like she was trying to read his mind.

"Are you sure?" she asked, her tone more serious now.

He nodded, forcing a small smile. "Yeah. I'm fine."

But deep down, he wasn't.

Not at all.