Chapter 13

Justine was stunned. The man from the coffee shop had changed into a white coat and put on gold-rimmed glasses. He looked even more gentle and scholarly.

She smiled and signed, "God, talk about a coincidence!"

Leon slid the book into its place on the shelf, then approached Justine, smiling as though meeting an old friend.

"Please, take a seat! We can just chat about whatever," he said.

Later, Justine realized Leon had been sincere—they chatted as if it were just a casual teatime between friends.

More than an hour passed, and Leon still hadn't mentioned her treatment.

She was the one who eventually steered the conversation in that direction.

"Have you thought this through carefully? You'll be reopening a scar you've left untouched for years. 'Sunlight is the best disinfectant,' as they say. We need to identify what's holding you back and work to remove it," he cautioned gently.

"It's not going to be easy, but we'll do our best together, alright?" he encouraged.

'No wonder he's