Ghostly Affairs

Chapter 18

It was a sunny day, the kind of day that lifted May's spirits as she stepped out of the car with Lin. They had arrived at a cozy Italian restaurant, tucked away from the busy streets. As they walked inside, the smell of fresh pasta filled the air, and the sound of light chatter created a comfortable background. Lin held the door open for May, who still moved cautiously due to her recovery.

Once they were seated by the window, May scanned the menu, a small smile playing on her lips. "Italian food? Didn't expect this from you."

Lin grinned, glancing at her over the menu. "Ghost-you told me you loved spaghetti. I figured it was a safe bet."

May chuckled, amused by the reminder of her ghostly self. "Of course I did. Good to know my ghost was a chatterbox."

Lin leaned forward slightly, her tone teasing. "Ghost-you was full of surprises. Helped me solve a few mysteries too."

May's laughter was light, though curiosity flickered in her eyes. She quickly brushed it off. "I guess I was useful then."

Lin nodded playfully. "Very. Especially when it came to food."

After placing their orders—spaghetti for May and a simple lasagna for Lin—they fell into a comfortable rhythm of conversation.

Lin sipped her water and asked, "So, what's next for you? Now that you're back and recovering... have you thought about continuing your studies?"

May's smile faltered just a bit, her gaze drifting to the window. "I've thought about it... but everything feels different now. It's like I've lost time, and the plans I had before seem so far away." She paused, twirling the edge of the napkin on her lap. "I don't know if I should pick up where I left off, or if I should start something new."

Lin watched her carefully, admiring the vulnerability in May's words. "There's no rush, you know. You don't have to decide everything right away. Take your time. You've been through a lot."

May glanced back at her, appreciating the soft encouragement. "Yeah, you're right. It's just... strange, trying to figure out where I fit now."

Lin nodded thoughtfully. "It's understandable. But wherever you choose to go, you're not doing it alone. I'll be here to help however I can."

May's lips curved into a small, appreciative smile. "Thanks, Lin."

Their food arrived shortly after, and the sight of the pasta brought a sparkle to May's eyes. "Ah, finally. It feels like I haven't had a decent meal in ages."

Lin laughed softly. "It's good to see you enjoying food again."

May twirled her fork into the spaghetti, then paused, giving Lin a sly glance. "What about you? You seem to know a lot about me. What's your favorite food?"

Lin hesitated for a moment, her eyes softening as she smiled. "I'm not picky, but if I had to choose... it's fried vermicelli with shrimp. I love the mix of flavors. But noodles also seem to do the trick, especially a warm bowl of soup noodles when I need something comforting."

May grinned, raising an eyebrow. "Fried vermicelli, huh? I wouldn't have guessed."

Lin shrugged playfully. "Well, I'm full of surprises."

May chuckled. "I'll keep that in mind. Maybe next time we'll go for your favorite."

Lin's eyes twinkled with amusement. "I wouldn't say no to that."

May tilted her head, teasing lightly. "So, Italian isn't your first choice then?"

Lin smirked, holding May's gaze. "No, but today's special."