A Second Chance

When the three of them entered the restaurant, Elena went to make a reservation at the counter.

Standing beside Valerie, Alden became much more awkward.

“Hey.” Valerie nudged his elbow and reminded, “Take more initiative later. You don't need me to tell you what to do, right?”

A conflicted look crossed Alden's face. “I'm... I'm afraid that she'll be unwilling to talk to me, but I'm worried about h