Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1924

J City

Amiee had ordered takeout, and glanced over at Josiah, who was lounging on the balcony. "Dinner's ready!" she called out.

Josiah sat on the floor, gazing at the snowflakes gently falling outside. His expression matched the cold bleakness of the scene.

Amiee walked over, standing behind him. "Come on, let's eat!"

Josiah shook his head. "I'm not hungry. You go ahead."

Amiee spoke softly, "You should eat something. You'll need the energy to help Estelle."

Josiah turned, looking at Amiee in surprise.

Amiee nodded. "I've checked the flights. We need to make two connections to get to Citadel. I've bought the tickets. If the weather clears up by tomorrow, we can leave in the morning. I'm coming with you." Josiah stood up, his eyes burning with intensity as he looked at Amiee. "Amiee..."

Amiee cut him off. "But once we get there, no rash moves. You listen to me, got it?"

"Deal!" Josiah agreed with a hearty tone.

Amiee raised an eyebrow. "Can we go eat now?"

"Hold on!" Josiah suddenly realized what she'd said. "You mean, you're coming with me?"

"Yes!" Amiee confirmed. "Every time it's been you and Estelle on missions, and me backing you up. This time, we fight side by side."

Josiah hugged her tightly. "Amiee, I love you!"

Amiee patted his shoulder, frowning slightly. "Cut the cheese, it's nauseating. Just pray for clear skies tomorrow."

Josiah cuddled in her arms. "Amiee, I'll save Estelle and I'll keep you safe."

Amiee smiled faintly. "I believe you."

Josiah planted a quick kiss on her cheek. "You're the best!"

Amiee wiped her face with a look of mock disgust. "You better keep yourself in check, or I might change my mind."

"Yes, madam!" Josiah chuckled, glancing at the dark night outside, already eager for what was to come.

The next morning, just as they'd hoped, the sun broke through the clouds, melting the light snow. The streets were adorned with the occasional bloom of plum blossoms, their subtle fragrance wafting through the air.

The barbecue restaurant was quiet that morning. Damian and the crew were tidying up the main hall when Norah walked in, arms full.

Everyone gathered around, excited.

"Norah, what have you been up to? You haven't stopped by in days!"

"Are you swamped with work? Remember to rest!"

"Are you still working at our place, or did you really quit? We all miss you!"

Norah set down her packages on a table. Dressed in a white coat and matching scarf, she exuded elegance with a touch of approachability. "Yeah, work's been crazy, so I haven't had the chance to come by. Just passing through today and thought I'd bring something for everyone."

Damian grinned. "Thanks for keeping us in mind."

"Of course. We're friends, aren't we?" Norah handed Damian a caramel-flavored hot tea. "Here, your favorite."

Her eyes swept across the room, then quickly dropped, as she continued handing out treats to everyone else.

Damian, sensing an opportunity, said with a smile, "Xavier has been holed up all morning, not sure what he's up to. He hasn't had breakfast either. Norah, could you take this pineapple bun up to him? He's quite fond of them."

Hesitant, Norah grabbed the bun but then handed it to Zachary. "You deliver it to Mr. Flemmings."

Zachary, munching on a pastry, was about to head upstairs when Damian grabbed him. "Weren't you going to shovel snow in the backyard? I'll join you. Let Norah take it up."

"Uh?" Zachary paused, then caught on, handing the bun back to Norah. "Right, right, I've got to clear the snow. You go!"

Norah, with the pineapple bun in hand, gave the two men a silent stare.

Damian chuckled. "Go on. It's been a while since you saw Xavier, hasn't it?"