Reunited in the city

1| New Horizons

Irene O'Connor stepped off the plane at JFK Airport, the humid New York City air enveloping her like a warm hug. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes as she gazed out at the towering skyscrapers, the Manhattan skyline a familiar yet daunting sight. It had been hours since she'd left Dublin, and now, at 20, she was starting anew😃.

As she collected her luggage, Irene's mind wandered to her childhood friend, Henry Ryan. They'd grown up together, exploring Dublin's streets, sharing secrets, and dreaming of adventures beyond Ireland's shores. Henry's family had moved to the US when they were 10, and despite promises to stay in touch, life had gotten in the way.

A flutter in her chest, Irene made her way to the city. The subway ride was a blur as she replayed memories of her friendship with Henry: laughter, tears, and late-night conversations. As she exited the subway, Irene caught a glimpse of herself in a window reflection. Her long, curly brown hair cascaded down her back, and her bright green eyes sparkled with excitement. She'd grown taller, her petite frame now athletic from years of dancing. A sprinkle of freckles across her nose added to her whimsical charm. As she walked to the coffee shop, Irene's mind whirled. What were the chances of running into Henry here, in this vast city? Their childhood friendship had been a defining part of her life, and she'd often wondered what could have been if they'd stayed in touch.

~Irene's POV~

I entered the coffee shop, went to the counter and ordered my favourite: caffe macchiato. Just as I turned to leave the counter, I collided with a tall, blond-haired guy. He seems like a student. 

"Sorry about that" We both exclaimed in unison.

My eyes met those of the guy--bright blue and unmistakeable. "Henry?"

His expression transformed from surprise to astonishment. "Irene? Oh my.....Woah!!. You're....no, I'm probably dreaming. You're here?"

We stood frozen, the whole coffee shop fading into the background. He's here!!!!!.

Henry opened his arms, and I rushed into a warm hug. "You're really here," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion.

"I also can't believe this, finally". I replied tears welling up.

We stepped back, Alex took in my appearance. "You look amazing, Renie." The old nickname brought a smile to my face.

"You're not so bad yourself, Hen" I smiled while saying that.

"What are you doing here?" Henry asked, grasping my arms

"I just moved to NYC," I replied, my voice trembling."Let's grab coffee," Henry suggested, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We have a lot to catch up on."I nodded, my heart racing.

Henry leaned back in his chair, cradling his cup. "So, Irene, what brought you to NYC?"

I took a sip. "Music, of course! I'm majoring in music performance in NYU."

"No way!" Henry exclaimed. "I remember your piano skills. You were always talented and I also study at NYU"

I blushed. "Thanks, Henry. I've been working hard. What about you?"

Henry replied. "Art major. Focusing on graphic design. I've got a passion project brewing."

 "Looks like we're back together." I said

Over steaming cups of coffee, we dove into stories of our past decade. I shared tales of my music passion, while Henry spoke of his art and family struggles.

As we talked, I realized the connection between us remained strong. Laughter flowed easily, and our banter felt like no time had passed.

"Henry, what's it been? Ten years?" I asked, attempting to sound casual."Ten long years," Henry replied, his gaze locking onto mine.

"Welcome to New York, Irene," Henry said, his eyes shining with warmth. "I'm glad you're here."

"Thanks, Henry."

Our easy banter felt like no time had passed, yet I sensed a newfound tension between us. 

His bright blue eyes crinkling at the corners, his passion for art shining through, and the way his voice deepened when discussing design. Was it just my imagination, or did Henry feel it too?

~Henry's POV~

As we sipped our coffee, I couldn't believe my eyes. Irene, the girl who'd been my partner in crime, my confidante, was sitting across from me. Her bright green eyes sparkled like emeralds lighting up when talking about music, and her curly brown hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall. Irene's smile was infectious.

"Wow, Irene, you look... amazing," I stuttered, feeling like a teenager again.

Irene's smile hinted at the mischief we'd once shared. "Thanks again, Henry".