Chapter 17: The First Real Date
The rain had started sometime after midnight, a soft, persistent drizzle that seemed to wash the neon off the Old District's streets. Jaden had insisted on closing up the Seven-Star with April, sweeping the floors and restocking shelves with a quiet, almost meditative focus. Mr. Han had taken one look at the boy in the expensive hoodie and decided not to ask questions. He'd simply handed Jaden a broom and disappeared into the back office, understanding without words that some moments didn't require explanation.
By 2 AM, they were walking through the sleeping city.
"I couldn't sleep," Jaden said simply, his hands buried deep in his pockets. "I kept thinking about this morning. About kissing you."
