The next day, Nikos didn’t show up.

The second day of the festival was in full swing. The city was alive with humming energy that felt so similar to New York. Dozens upon dozens of people flocked down the streets, dressed in painted wings and carrying glow sticks. There were perhaps even more people than yesterday. Decorations lined every street corner, and banners were hung with extreme care.

One of the heart-shaped petals fell from the tree, the wind carrying ...