Chapter 63 For Athena
Athena had always been a pillar of strength, but now, she was facing one of the most challenging moments of her life. After everything that had happened, she was trying to find a sense of peace, even though the emotional weight of her past kept pulling her back.
Sitting across from Logan, Athena couldn’t help but feel a sense of warmth. Logan, now 19, had grown so much over the years, not just physically but also emotionally. He had changed from a thin and shy boy to someone who was more mature and determined. His pride was evident when he spoke, “Athena, I’ve grown taller!” His enthusiasm made her smile, despite everything she had been through. She couldn’t help but feel a tinge of nostalgia. Four years ago, when they first met, Logan was much younger and more reserved. Now, he was so confident, almost like a reflection of the person Athena wished she could be.
The conversation turned to her health, and Logan’s concern was genuine. “Athena, you look much thinner than the last time I saw you,” Kevin Shawn, Logan’s grandfather, remarked. The older man was someone Athena had always admired, and she could see the care in his eyes. He made sure she ate well, urging her to have more meat, something she had missed since her grandpa’s passing. It reminded her of the warm family dinners they used to have, and the comfort of a home-cooked meal.
As the meal ended, Athena felt full and at ease, though the weight of the world still hung on her shoulders. Logan, always optimistic, tried to cheer her up. “You should stay here longer, Athena. You don’t have to rush back to find a job. I can support you,” he said, his sincerity shining through. He even mentioned buying a bigger house for her in Greeli City. Athena appreciated the gesture but knew she couldn’t stay long. Kevin was not in the best of health, and Logan still had to focus on his studies. The peaceful life they were offering her was tempting, but she couldn’t impose on them forever.
“I appreciate it, Logan, but I think I need to go back to Greeli City,” Athena replied softly. She didn’t want to burden them more than she already had. Logan looked disappointed, but Athena’s silence spoke volumes.
Later, after Logan left to continue his coding work, Athena tried to rest. The quietness of the room was soothing, but her thoughts were loud. Wrapped in a thin quilt, she tried to sleep, but her dreams were unsettled. She dreamt of Byron sending flowers to Heather, a symbol of the life he was moving on to. In the dream, Heather accepted the flowers and the two of them shared a sweet moment, smiling and embracing each other warmly.
Athena stirred in her sleep, disturbed by the vision. Deep down, she knew that Byron’s life was no longer her own. He had chosen a different path, and in her heart, she understood that the relationship they once shared had come to an end.
The next morning, Logan, ever the optimist, came in with a cup of hot cocoa, trying to lift Athena’s spirits. “Athena, I’ve set a goal for myself,” he said with determination, handing her the cup. “I’ll earn ten million dollars and buy you a bigger house in Greeli City. You deserve it.” He stuck a sticky note with the goal written on it to his wall, eager to make his promise come true. Athena smiled at his earnestness. Logan had a heart full of ambition, and despite everything, he still cared deeply for her.
Though she appreciated his efforts, Athena knew she had to stand on her own. She couldn’t rely on others forever. The journey ahead was hers to take, and although it would be difficult, she was determined to find her way. She just had to find the strength to do it.