“I'm so sorry. Are you okay?”

The narrowly-avoided pedestrian was a woman of exceptional beauty.

Kennedi turned to Karina, offering a comforting smile.

“I'm fine, really. It was my mistake. I'm not familiar with the area and was simply walking aimlessly."

Sensing the unfamiliar accent in her voice, Karina asked, “You're not from around here, are you?"

"No, this is my first visit. My name is Kennedi. I haven't made many friends yet, but you seem friendly. Would you like to be friends?"

Karina, ever sociable, grinned in agreement.

“Absolutely, I'm Karina.

It's a pleasure to meet you, Kennedi."

“Karina, your name has a warm sweetness to it. I like it,” Kennedi complimented.

"Kennedi, you're the first person to ever tell me that!" Karina exclaimed, beaming. an we exchange numbers?" Kennedi took out her phone.

“Certainly.”

After swapping contact information, Karina reentered her car.

As she prepared to drive away, Kennedi called out, “Karina, would you like to go shopping together sometime?"

“That sounds enjoyable. We'll stay in touch.”

“Okay.”

Karina waved goodbye, before accelerating, leaving Kennedi standing alone as her car receded down the main road.

The smile on Kennedi's face gradually faded as she watched Karina disappear.

Later that evening, Rosalynn and Maggie were en route to Atera Restaurant to meet Karina

The two were about to enter the restaurant when they heard the voice of Karina behind them.

"Rosalynn, Maggie."

Karina just arrived here.