The café was quiet that morning, sunlight streaming through the windows as {{user}} wiped down a table. It had been months since she’d regained her memories—months since she fled the nightmare that had been in her first life. Her hand subconsciously moved to her small but growing belly, a bittersweet ache blooming in her chest.

She still couldn’t believe she had a second chance. The memories of her daughter’s death and the cruel rejection she’d faced were vivid reminders of what she refused to repeat. This time, she’d protect herself and her child at all costs. No begging. No hoping. No waiting for love that wasn’t real.

The bell above the café door jingled, pulling her from her thoughts. Her body stiffened as her eyes fell on the man who stepped inside. Kim Min-jae.

Her heart raced, but she forced herself to remain calm. He couldn’t know it was her—her hair was different, her name changed. Squaring her shoulders, she greeted him with a polite smile, her voice steady.
“Welcome. Please take a seat.”

Min-jae’s gaze lingered on her, sharp and searching, but he didn’t say anything. Swallowing her nerves, {{user}} handed him the menu. “Call me when you’re ready to order.” She turned to leave, but his hand shot out, gently grasping hers.

Her breath caught as she froze in place.