12. Trapped in Memories

That morning, sunlight penetrated her bedroom window, disturbing Starla’s deep sleep. Birds chirped cheerfully outside, welcoming the new day with enthusiasm. The rustling of leaves in the wind brought peace, as if whispering that today was a day full of hope.

Starla blinked, feeling the warm, gentle sunlight on her skin. Slowly, she got out of bed, stretching her tired body after the long journey from Seoul to London. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee from her neighbor wafted through the open window, giving her extra motivation to get out of the comfortable bed.

After showering and dressing, Starla stood in front of the mirror, brushing her long, shiny hair. That morning, she chose a simple pastel blue dress that exuded softness and elegance. She wanted to look neat when meeting William, her long-time friend. Satisfied with her appearance, she grabbed her bag and put her laptop inside.

Starla stepped out of her apartment, feeling the fresh and slightly chilly London morning air. She took a deep breath, enjoying the distinctive aroma of the city she always missed. The city streets were alive with morning activity. People hurried to work, while others enjoyed breakfast at small cafes lining the streets. Starla smiled at a mother pushing her baby stroller, feeling connected to the warmth of the surrounding atmosphere.

She decided to walk to the meeting place, enjoying every step that brought her closer to a meeting that might change her days. The streets filled with colorful autumn leaves provided a beautiful view, making her heart feel lighter. As she passed a park, she paused to watch a group of children playing joyfully, laughing and shouting with excitement.

Upon arriving at the agreed-upon cafe, the usual place where she and William often met, Starla felt a warm wave of nostalgia. The cafe was small and cozy, with a distinctive coffee aroma and a warm atmosphere. She chose a corner table near the window overlooking the street. Patiently, she waited for William while sipping a cup of hot tea just served by the friendly waiter.

Absorbed in observing the cozy cafe, Starla suddenly felt a vibration in her pocket. Her phone rang with an incoming call from Luna, her friend who was always there at every important moment. Quickly, Starla answered the call. “Hello, Lun?”

“Where are you, Star?” asked Luna as soon as Starla brought the phone to her ear.

“At the cafe. Come here, I have something to tell you!” she requested, her anxiety creeping into her voice.

“I can’t right now, Star. Maybe in half an hour. I’m busy at the office,” said Luna, her voice slightly rushed.

Starla frowned. “So, why did you call me then?”

“Hehe, yeah. I wanted to ask where you were but can’t come straight away,” replied Luna with a playful tone.

Starla shook her head gently, smiling despite feeling a bit disappointed. “Okay then, Lun. Half an hour later, okay?”

“Deal! Thanks, Star. See you later!” Luna thanked her before ending the call.

Not long after, William arrived. He looked as usual, with a warm smile and sharp yet kind eyes. “Starla, so good to see you again.”

“Good to see you too, Will. How are you?” asked Starla, trying to hide her nervousness.

“I’m good, thanks. How was Seoul? Did you get a lot of inspiration?” William asked, his eyes sparkling with interest.

“Seoul was beautiful, very inspiring. Three days there didn’t feel enough,” she answered honestly. Then a waiter brought William’s order, pausing their conversation for a moment.

“By the way, I’ve read your manuscript,” said William, reopening their conversation. The cafe’s warm atmosphere, filled with the aroma of coffee, created the perfect setting for a deep discussion. “As usual, your manuscript is interesting and well-written. The grammar is good, and the pacing is just right.”

Starla listened carefully, her face beaming as she heard William’s praise. “Thank goodness!”

“There’s something I want to tell you,” he said again. In the middle of their conversation, William looked at Starla seriously, his eyes searching her expression. “I think your manuscript has great potential. We can tweak a few parts and make it something extraordinary. But, you need to open up more, your feelings.”

“What do you mean?” she asked, her curiosity piqued. Starla frowned, trying to understand what William meant.

“Like I said, your manuscript is almost perfect, but I didn’t feel the emotion when reading it, especially in the romantic scenes,” William explained sincerely. “You need to immerse yourself more into the characters, especially in crucial moments like those.”

“Alright, I’ll try to do better,” she said firmly, determined to take William’s advice as a challenge to improve her writing. Starla nodded, realizing there were indeed parts of her manuscript that needed more depth.

“I know you can do it. Let’s finish this manuscript together,” he said enthusiastically, smiling.

William was a unique figure in Starla’s life, a true friend and a dedicated editor. The well-dressed man with perfectly groomed brown hair had a smile that could warm hearts. William was not only smart and analytical but also wise and understanding. As an editor, he was meticulous and critical, always giving constructive feedback to perfect Starla’s manuscripts. As a friend, he was loyal and always ready to listen, providing support in difficult times.

After about half an hour at the cafe, discussing the manuscript and a bit about their personal lives, William checked his watch and smiled gently. “Starla, I have to go now. I have other matters to attend to.”

Starla nodded, though slightly disappointed, she understood that William’s busyness was unavoidable. “Thank you, Will, for all your input and your time.”

William stood up, organizing his things. “You’re welcome, Starla. Remember, I’m always here if you need help. Keep up the spirit!”

Just like Luna, William also knew some things happening in Starla’s life. He always became a confidant when Starla faced confusion, including her complex feelings towards Nick. After leaving the cafe, William’s face turned somber.

“Only you can overcome your own trauma, Starla.” His footsteps took him back to the past, to the event that changed Starla. “How long will she continue to be immersed in her trauma?”