I Was Their Clown, Now I Wear the Crown

Chapter 13: Is It Because of Me?

It was a quiet coffee shop, playing old Kathan folk songs that drifted gently through the dim, yellow light.

Laura was sitting by the window. On the table was a cup of coffee and a single, vibrant local rose in a small vase.

I walked towards her, looking at the face that seemed even softer under the warm light.

She stood up and gave me the same sweet smile I remembered so well.

I nodded and sat down.

The whole time, neither of us said a word. No "You're here," or "How have you been?"—none of that pointless chatter.

"Sir, what can I get for you?"

A Kathan waiter in an embroidered uniform came over and asked politely in his native tongue.

"Do you have Ayaran Elephant Lager?" I asked back in Kathan.

"Yes, we do, sir."

"One bottle, please. Thank you."

"Right away, sir."

After the waiter left, Laura seemed to have found her opening. She smiled. "I almost forgot how well you speak Kathan."

I managed a small smile. "That's understandable. It would be strange if you hadn't forgotten."

Laura ca