"Of course, even if you want to go through with it, let''s wait until after the New


    Year. Everyone deserves to celebrate in peace. If you stir up a divorce now, who can truly enjoy the festivities?"


    With these words, he turned to leave.


    But just before turning away, he couldn''t help himself and added, "No matter the issues between you and Lysander, your mother-inw has always been good to you. For her sake, let everyone have a peaceful New Year."


    Having said his piece, he exited through the café''s back door to avoid running into that troublesome son of his.


    ...


    Upstairs, M sat alone.


    She quietly folded the divorce papers and nced down at the lively trio below, who seemed like a perfect family. A sad smile crept onto her face, filled with an inexplicable sense of mncholy.


    Everyone urged her to be patient, to ensure a happy New Year for others.


    But what about her?


    How would she and her great-aunt spend their New Year?


    Who would ensure it was a joyful time for them?


    ...


    M drove along the road to her studio, nestled in Maplewood Grove.


    Halfway there, her phone rang with Rnd on the line. She was surprised he still reached out to her. After exchanging pleasantries, he mentioned wanting to make up for the awkward family gathering by inviting her out for dinner.


    M recalled her great-aunt''s warnings about the Lockwood family, a n with a reputation she neither could nor wanted to entangle with, so she politely declined.


    The call went silent for a moment before Rnd''s warmugh came through, "Ms. Suthend, do you remember the old acquaintance I mentionedst time? He''s arriving tomorrow at thetest. Aren''t you interested in catching up?"


    M''s grip on the steering wheel tightened. After a few seconds, she responded, "Mr. Lockwood, the past is behind us. I want to start anew and have no desire to dredge up old ties. It would only bring unnecessary trouble."


    The past should remain buried.


    Rnd chuckled softly, "Ms. Suthend, you have quite the resolute heart. It''s a shame for my friend."


    M ended the call.


    She pulled over and stared nkly ahead until her vision steadied. Then, she started the car and continued to Maplewood Grove.


    Despite the evening gloom, Maplewood Grove was alight with festive cheer.


    As her car drove through the neighborhood, she noticed the road to her studio was lined with whimsical animal-shaped candles, casting a warm, bright glow. With New Year approaching, themunity was alive with celebratory spirit. Driving through the grove, M parked in front of her studio and realized something unusual; only the road she traveled was adorned with these charming candles.


    Even her studio''s front door sported a cute cat-shaped candle, adding a touch of joy and whimsy.


    M took the candle down, holding it in her hands. The endearing sight lifted her spirits considerably.


    Whoever had thoughtfully decorated the area had even hung a candle on her door.


    Curious, M looked around.


    Her curiosity was soon satisfied when she noticed the vi across the street, newly sold, was also adorned with the same adorable animal candles, shining brightly from within.


    She recalled that the vi''s new owner was a recently returned academic from abroad.


    Had they already moved in?


    This new neighbor seemed quite the romantic, not only decorating their home with festive candles but also extending the cheer to her ce. Perhaps they thought her entrance looked too bare.


    Their kindness had certainly brightened her mood.


    With the candle in hand, M walked briskly towards the opposite vi, eager to express her gratitude.