Elena reached home and told everyone about her decision to go to the capital.
For a brief second, worry flickered across her mother's and grandmother's faces—but they hid it quickly, replacing it with warm smiles.
"If this is what you want, then go," her mother said softly. "We're with you, always."
Her grandmother nodded. "Just don't forget us when you become successful."
Elena's throat tightened.
Maybe this was what family truly meant—
hiding their fears, just so you could chase your dreams without looking back. Elena spent the next few days at home, quietly preparing for her move to the capital.
Packing.
Planning.
Letting everything sink in.
A few days later, she finally left.
Emma had already shared all the details, so everything went smoothly.
At the capital's airport, Lyra was waiting.
The moment Elena stepped out, she spotted her—jeans, simple top, familiar smile.
Lyra's face lit up.
"Elena!" she said happily, walking straight toward her and pulling her into a tight hug.
"I missed you so much."
Elena smiled and hugged her back.
"I missed you too."
Lyra quickly placed Elena's luggage into the company car, and soon, the two of them were seated inside.
As the car moved toward the company apartment, the city stretched out ahead—
Elena and Lyra finally reached the company apartment.
The place was neat and modern—simple, but comfortable.
They carried the luggage inside together. Lyra talked non-stop while Elena unpacked, arranging her clothes and essentials neatly into the wardrobe.
"Capital life officially starts now," Lyra declared dramatically, placing the last bag down.
Elena laughed softly.
After everything was set, Lyra flopped onto the couch and looked at her.
"So… should we order food here or go out to eat?" she asked. "You must be hungry."
Elena stretched her tired arms and sat beside her.
"Let's just order here," she said with a small smile. "I'm too tired to go anywhere."
Lyra gasped. "Wow. First day in the capital and Madam already acting like a CEO who doesn't step out."
Elena raised an eyebrow. "If you're paying, I might reconsider."
Lyra immediately grabbed her phone. "Ordering right now. Welcome dinner sponsored by me."
Lyra stretched and waved a hand casually.
"You go take a shower," she said. "By the time you're done, the food will be here. I'll set the table."
Elena nodded.
"Okay."
She went to her room, unpacked a few things, and headed straight for the shower. The warm water washed away the travel fatigue, and by the time she was done, she felt lighter.
A little later, Elena stepped out, her hair half-dry, wearing a loose T-shirt and comfortable shorts—the kind of clothes that only existed at home.
She walked into the living room.
No food.
She looked at the empty table, then at Lyra.
"Didn't the food arrive yet?"
Lyra picked up her phone and checked.
"It's on the way," she said. "Any minute now."
Just then, Lyra's phone rang.
She glanced at the screen and sighed softly.
"My mom."
She answered the call and walked a little to the side, already deep in conversation.
At the same moment—
Ding-dong.
The doorbell rang.
Elena looked toward Lyra, who was busy talking on the phone, then toward the door.
"I'll get it," Elena said quietly, even though Lyra couldn't hear her.
She walked over and opened the main door.
The food delivery had arrived.
Elena took the bags, thanked the delivery person, and turned back inside.
That's when—
The door of the apartment directly opposite theirs opened.
Elena's steps slowed.
She glanced up—
And noticed the neighboring apartment door standing open, as someone inside stepped out.
For some reason, she paused—