Maisie's heart skipped a beat. She felt a unique connection with Daniel that went beyond friendship. It was a feeling akin to memories from a past life, familiar and comforting.

"Since you see me as a friend, helping each other is the natural way of things," Daniel reassured her softly. "You don't need to hesitate. But if it truly bothers you, you can treat me to a meal again. That might make you feel better." -

The day Maisie invited Daniel to dinner marked the start of winter. She had prepared a hearty hot pot, filling the table with fish, shrimp, beef, lamb, fresh veggies, and mushrooms.

Daniel brought a bottle of wine, and they enjoyed a warm conversation while indulging in the hot pot's comforting heat.

As he asked about her wedding preparations, Maisie hesitated for a moment, smiled, and didn't give a direct response.

"What's the matter?" Daniel asked. "Is there something you and your fiance don't agree on?"

Maisie spoke softly. "I always feel like he's keeping something from me."

"What is it?"

to the hot pot but accidentally scalded her fair hand on the edge of the pot,

the kitchen, where he ran her burned hand under cold water. He

it painful?" He was anxious and

sense of being cared for and protected came from Daniel— not her fiance—someone she

their connection was more profound than their short acquaintance suggested. She found solace and security when she was with him,

such complex emotions arise

worried when she didn't respond. "Is

"Oh, no..."

knew but stopped as Maisie gently spoke, "I'm genuinely okay. Don't bother your friend. The ice is soothing. At most, I'll use

"I'll go buy some."

put on

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