Maris spotted Lani approaching, Maris's steps lively and swift. Lani enthusiastically greeted her and handed her two pastry boxes.

"Why go through all the trouble, bringing sweet treats like this? You've already worked hard enough. Next time, you don't have to bring pastries. Take a good rest whenever you have the time," Maris remarked.

Maris, captivated by the pastry boxes, couldn't let go. However, she didn't forget to remind Lani not to overexert herself. A month apart, and Maris sensed that ...