The ride was uneventful, but Wei’s mind was filled with thoughts of Luca.

The office was a bright and open space filled with artwork of all kinds. Paintings adorned the walls, sculptures graced the corners, and there was even a small gallery for rotating exhibitions. Dewdrop Collective was a testament to their commitment to the arts.

Miles, upon seeing Wei, greeted him with a warm smile. He knew about Wei’s recent encounter with Luca and offered a silent understanding that meant the world to him.

“Morning, Wei. How are you holding up?” Miles asked, his concern evident in his eyes.

Wei forced a smile, not wanting to burden Miles with his emotional turmoil. “I'm fine, Miles. Let's focus on what needs to be done.”

Miles looked unconvinced, but said nothing.

The meeting was lengthy, addressing upcoming art exhibitions and marketing strategies for the artists they represented. 

Wei was fully engaged, his professionalism unwavering. He took detailed notes, jotting down key points and asking insightful questions. 

He was also proactive in sharing his own ideas and suggestions, demonstrating his deep knowledge of the art world and his commitment to the success of his clients.

When the meeting concluded, Miles approached him. “Wei, I know this isn't easy for you. But you're doing an incredible job, and I admire your strength.”

Wei's smile was more genuine this time. “Thanks, Miles.”

Back at his shared condo, Wei sank onto the couch in his shared condo, his mind a whirlwind of emotions. He missed Luca more than he could express. He missed their shared laughter, their late-night conversations, and the warmth of Luca's presence.

Luca was always a warm presence when they were together. He would leave an imprint everywhere, and Wei couldn’t help but feel like the condo is empty. Empty from the sticky notes or empty from the hot chocolate that would be ready for Wei whenever he got up from his nap.

His phone buzzed with a notification. It was a reminder for his therapy session later in the day. He’s been doing therapy for the last 4 years and no matter what, no matter the improvement, Wei seems to be falling back.

Wei decided to take a walk in a nearby park before his therapy session. The open space and natural surroundings sometimes helped clear his mind.

He strolled beneath the rustling leaves, past children playing and couples laughing. As he took in the sights and sounds of life moving on around him, he couldn't help but overhear a conversation between an elderly couple sitting on a bench.

“Remember the first time we came to this park, Mina?” the old man asked, his eyes filled with nostalgia.

Mina chuckled, her wrinkled hand reaching for her husband's. “Of course, Hajoon. You spilled ice cream all over your shirt that day.”

Wei felt a pang in his chest, the memory of his own sweet moments with Luca flooding back. He forced himself to keep walking, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.

By the time Wei arrived at his therapist's office, he was emotionally drained. Dr. Aslanov listened attentively, offering guidance and empathy.

During the therapy session with Dr. Aslanov, Wei hesitated but eventually decided to share what had been on his mind most.

“You know, Dr. Aslanov,” Wei began tentatively, “I recently met with Luca.”

Dr. Aslanov raised an eyebrow, his expression a mix of curiosity and encouragement. “That's a significant step, Wei. How did it go?”

Wei took a deep breath before recounting the rainy day when they had bumped into each other. He described their conversation, the different emotions he felt, and the now bittersweet memories it had stirred.

Dr. Aslanov listened attentively, nodding periodically. “It seems like this meeting had a profound impact on you. How do you feel now, after the fact?” 

Wei sighed, struggling to put his emotions into words. “I'm glad I saw him, but it also reminded me of how much I miss him. I can't help but wonder if things could have been different.”

Dr. Aslanov leaned forward, his gaze compassionate. “It's natural to have those thoughts, Wei. But remember, healing doesn't mean erasing the past. It means finding a way to move forward, even with those memories.”

Wei nodded, trying to absorb Dr. Aslanov's advice. “It's fine if it takes a while. Not everyone walks at the same pace. Some people need more time to heal, right?”

Dr. Aslanov smiled warmly. “Exactly, Wei. Healing isn't a race; it's a journey unique to each individual. What's important is that you're making progress, no matter how slow it may seem.”

Wei left the therapist's office, feeling a weight lifted from his shoulders.

When he arrived home, he noticed that the lights were off, but the TV was on. Kai sat on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, engrossed in a horror movie.

“You see this couple, Taya? They might be dramatic, but their relationship is healthier than yours and Luca’s ',” Kai remarked, his eyes fixed on the on-screen couple.

Wei chuckled softly from the doorway, causing Kai to turn his head in surprise. 

“Taya! You're back! You left without telling me!” Kai complained. “How was your therapy session?”

Wei offered a genuine smile. “It was good, Kai. I think it's helping.”

Kai nodded in understanding. “That's great to hear.”

As the horror movie continued to play on the screen, Wei joined Kai on the couch, wrapping himself in a blanket as well. 

They watched the movie together, making fun of the characters and their decisions.