Where paths cross

Chapter 11

Magnus had spent the past few weeks pouring his heart and soul into his work, working day and night on designs and construction for his family's bakery. Today, on Christmas, he found himself more focused on his work than ever before. He never really cared for celebrating the holiday, and the noise and excitement of the day only served to distract him from his work. As the day went on, Magnus found himself growing more and more stressed and overwhelmed, his desire to finish the project becoming stronger than ever before.

Magnus was working hard on his bakery blueprints, which was designed with a bold, red theme in mind. Astraea had told him that red was her favorite color, so Magnus was sure to incorporate it into the design in hopes of impressing her whenever she came to visit. As Magnus worked day and night on perfecting the details of his renovated bakery, he couldn't help but smile at the thought of Astraea coming to see it when it was finished.

There were plenty of activities to do for the holiday season, and Magnus couldn't help but wonder if there might be some fun events happening on Christmas night. As he finished up his work, he decided that he would step outside and explore the city for a while. 

As Magnus stepped outside, he was greeted by the cold New York winter air. But, he didn't let the chilly temperatures stop him from taking Max, Theos dog, for a walk to explore the city on Christmas. The two walked through the bustling streets, taking in the Christmas lights and decorations, and enjoying the festive atmosphere. As they continued their walk, Magnus couldn't help but reflect on how far he'd come in such a short amount of time, and a small smile came to his face as he thought about the adventure that lay ahead.

As Magnus and Max enjoyed their Christmas walk, Max suddenly took off towards someone nearby. Before Magnus could react, the dog had run over to a young woman and started barking and jumping around her. Magnus quickly went over to check on the situation and see if Max was causing any trouble. As he got closer, he could see that the woman was smiling and petting Max and laughing. 

Magnus couldn't believe it. Just as he had been walking through the city on Christmas Eve, he had happened upon Astraea. It was truly a coincidence, as Magnus hadn't been expecting to see her again anytime soon. But with Astraea standing right in front of him, he felt a pang of excitement and happiness. 

As Magnus walked over to Astraea, he couldn't help but wonder what she was doing here. Did he just happen to run into her, or was she here on purpose? And how did she know Max? Had she met him before? The questions lingered in Magnus' mind as he stepped up to Astraea. He was eager to find out more.

"So, you're just out enjoying Christmas, huh?" Magnus asks, starting the conversation.

"Yeah, I thought I'd try to take advantage of the holiday season and soak in all of the festive spirit. Plus, it's just nice to get out and explore a bit.

"Huh, well, I guess that makes sense. I was actually planning to do something similar."

"Oh, really? What were you planning on doing?"

I was thinking about going around the city and exploring a bit, seeing if there's anything interesting going on for the holiday"

"Oh, that sounds nice. Do you want me to join you? Or would you prefer if you went off on your own?

"If you want to come with me, that's fine."

"You don't mind if I join you?"

"No, don't worry about it. I don't mind at all."

"Well, alright then. It sounds like we have a plan. Should we head out now?"

"Sure, why not."

The two of them started walking off into the crowded streets together, heading off to see what New York City had to offer on Christmas.

As they walked through the brightly lit streets and the festive atmosphere, Magnus couldn't help but feel a sense of joy and wonder. Astraea seemed to be enjoying the holiday as well, having a fun time exploring the city and taking in all the details. The two of them laughed as they spotted Santa Claus, and made their way through the busy streets to see the massive Christmas tree that was decorated with lights, ornaments, and other festive decorations. 

As Magnus and Astraea continued their walk, seeing all of the bright, colourful lights and decorations, hearing all the laughter and festive music, it was hard to deny that this Christmas was truly magical. Max, meanwhile, barked happily at every sight, clearly enjoying himself and the attention he was getting from Magnus and Astraea. Magnus and Astraea couldn't help but feel like this Christmas would be one that they would never forget.

As the evening came to a close and the night fell, Magnus and Astraea sat down on a nearby bench, taking a break and enjoying the beauty of a winter night in New York City. They sat in companionable silence, taking in the sights and enjoying the calm aura of the night. As the sound of carols and merriment faded away and the festive lights slowly dimmed, Magnus and Astraea couldn't help but feel a comfortable atmosphere and a sense of ease between them. With the night at their backs, Magnus could feel Astraea's eyes on him, and his heart began to race.

"So, Magnus, I have to say it's been a great day."

"I agree, it's been a lot of fun. And thank you for joining me today."

"No problem at all. It's been a while since I've done something special like this for the holidays."

"Yeah, I totally get what you mean."

"You know, Magnus, I've been doing some thinking."

"Oh? Thought it was difficult for you to think"

"Oh shut up" she laughs, unbothered by his comment.

"I've been thinking about how much I've enjoyed spending time with you today."

"Really? You've enjoyed spending time with me?"

"Very much so."

"Well, I could say the same thing to you."

"Well, maybe we could spend some more time together after all."

As Magnus and Astraea took a deep breath and said their goodbyes, they couldn't help but think back to the day they had shared together. It had been so much fun and so freeing, and as they parted ways, they both knew that this would be a day they would never forget. As Magnus walked home, he couldn't help but smile and let out a small sigh of happiness to himself, grateful for what a wonderful time he had had. And Astraea, who had reluctantly said goodbye to max, also couldn't help but smile and reflect on the special day with Magnus that she had enjoyed.

______________________________

heyy! This is a much longer chapter hope you guys enjoyed please comment and vote and give me feedback <3