Turning around, I was greeted by the sight of Xenia running toward me with a smile. “Liliana, what a coincidence. Are you here on holiday too?” Ever since I attended the class reunion, my perception of my dormmates, Xenia and Jennie, had changed. Although I was surprised to run into Xenia, I returned her smile. “Mmm-hmm, I'm here to clear my mind.” Xenia looked past me and glanced at Livingsfill Hotel. “Liliana, are you really going to splurge and stay there?” I replied helplessly, “I have no choice. This is the only place available, as everywhere else is full.” “Didn't you book a room ahead of time? Considering that it's almost Christmas, this town is usually packed with tourists.” I answered with a smile, “I decided on the fly and didn't think too much about it.”“You... Please wait a moment while I take a call.” Nodding at Xenia, I gestured for her to go ahead. Halfway through her call, Xenia looked in my direction and told me that a guest at her hotel had checked out just now. Hence, she checked with me to see if I wanted to stay there. The moment I heard that there was an empty room, I agreed without a moment's hesitation. After ending her call, Xenia said, “Liliana, let's go there now, as there are other tourists trying to get that room. I told Jen to get the hotel manager to hold the room for us. Where's your luggage? Let's grab it and head over there at once.” I shook my head. “I came here empty-handed.” Xenia was briefly stunned before she asked skeptically, “Did you really decide on a whim? You actually came all the way here with nothing at all?”I chuckled. “Exactly. Isn't it all the rage right now? Let's hurry before the room is taken.” Luckily, the hotel Xenia was staying in was located nearby. After a short walk, we arrived at the concierge where I completed the check-in procedures. I was glad that I found a place to stay without breaking the bank. It was all thanks to Xenia and Jennie. To express my gratitude, I decided to give them both a treat. The two of them had arrived two days before I did. Based on their recommendation, we went to a local boutique restaurant. During the meal, I learned that both of them enjoyed trekking. They were in Livingsfill to join a team on a trek. Although I had heard much about trekking, I had never tried it before. Based on their description, it sounded like a lot of fun. “However, Liliana, why are you traveling alone? Isn't it boring? Furthermore, Christmas's around the corner!”Xenia's words caused me to feel dejected as Dominic's face flashed across my mind. If not for the fight we had, we would be on our way to my place to get the documents for my passport application. “Liliana, what seems to be distracting you?” When Xenia waved her hand in front of my eyes, I regained my senses and replied with a smile, “Remember that I draw comics for a living? Recently, I ran out of ideas. Hence, I'm out traveling alone to gain some inspiration.” Jennie interrupted, “Since you're alone, why don't you join us the day after? Perhaps you might gain some inspiration that way.” I asked curiously, “Trekking together with you?” Xenia replied, “I think Jen's suggestion is a wonderful idea. Liliana, I'm sure you have not tried it before. Once you do, you will be hooked. Who knows, you might be able to gain a lot of inspiration from it.” Although I was caught by surprise, I was indeed tempted. “But I didn't bring anything with me. Trekking requires one to be well equipped. Furthermore, I have not tried it before and may end up holding you back—” Xenia gently slammed on the table. “You can just buy whatever you need. Money will solve that for you. As for your concern that you'll hold us back, it's not going to be an issue at all. Although Jen and I are not experienced trekkers, as we have only gone on two treks, we will try our best to help you along. Besides, there are many experienced trekkers in the group. So, don't worry. Everything will be fine.” The more I was astounded listening to them, the more tempted I was. Jennie added, “Exactly, Xen is right. Also, the places that we are traveling to are not dangerous. If you decide to come along, we will take you shopping.” After giving it some thought, I decided to join them for the experience. Since I was on holiday and ran into Xenia and Jennie, it would be a shame if I didn't give it a try. Both of them were visibly delighted that I was joining them. Their response had increased my enthusiasm for the trip. After a quick meal, they brought me out shopping. When we started buying the things I needed, I realized that my idea of trekking had been too simplistic. Soon, the three of us were holding bags of stuff. Even then, Xenia and Jennie told me that it wasn't enough. At the same time, the equipment that we bought was also quite pricey. Sighing quietly, I could feel that the money I spent was similar to what I would have splurged on Livingsfill Hotel. By the time we were done and returned to the hotel, it was already ten. Xenia told me that she would inform their team leader about my participation the next day. Also, we would still need to get some knick-knacks before waiting to start our journey the day after.After nodding in acknowledgment, we bid each other goodbye before returning to our respective rooms. Although I didn't get any sleep the night before, I was still lying awake in the hotel bed. Given that I had turned off my phone, I wondered what Dominic was doing at that moment. I turned and tossed in bed restlessly for a long while, unable to fall asleep. At the same time, I could hear my stomach growling. When I recalled seeing a street stall selling grilled meat on the way back earlier, I hesitated for a moment before putting on my jacket and heading there. The moment I stepped out, the bone-chilling wind caused me to button up my jacket. It was obvious to me that Livingsfill was a lot colder at night than in the day. After strolling to the stall by the street, I could see that business was brisk. The stall owner greeted me warmly.While I was choosing what I wanted to eat, Dominic appeared in my mind again. Back in the days when we were in school, both of us would have grilled meat together after lessons ended. Holding that thought, I couldn't help but sigh. “You really are good at running.” When I heard the familiar voice, I was dumbstruck and dropped the grilled skewers I was holding onto the ground.