1

They say people come to New York for two reasons — to follow their hearts or chase their dreams. The first time I ever came to New York, I wasn't even born yet. I was curled up in my mother’s womb, just a tiny peanut.

My parents’ love story was short but intense — enough to bring two children into the world, one of them being me. But their love didn’t last. As expected, it ended because of another woman.

Even so, something about this city never let my mom go. And I understand why. New York isn’t just a city — it’s a world of its own.

It was one of the worst winters we’d had. A deadly storm swept through the city — a mix of biting winds and heavy snow.

Keeping calm felt impossible as the weather clawed at my spirit. As I walked home, fingers frozen deep in my coat pockets, all I could think about was a hot cup of coffee. 

There was something comforting about coffee shops in New York. The smell of fresh brews wrapped around you like a warm hug. It was no surprise people came there to make big decisions — over a latte, a quiet sigh, or to feel less alone, surrounded by strangers chasing their own dreams.

 This place, with its white cups and black coffee, tiny jugs of cream, and soft background chatter, had that cozy vibe that made you want to stay a little longer.

As I stood in the queue, I found myself watching the people around me — how their expressions shifted in an instant. A smile, a frown, a tired blink — all saying more than words ever could. 

“What can I get for you?” a cheerful girl asked from behind the counter, her voice light and sweet.

“I’ll have a small latte, please,” I said with a polite smile.

“Anything else?” she asked, already scribbling on a white cup.

“No, that’s all.”

“Name?”

“Alyona. That’s A-L-Y-O-N-A,” I said, watching her write it out.

A few minutes later, she handed me my cup — an eight-ounce latte, warm and smooth to the touch. The milky aroma rose in soft curls, comforting and familiar.  I took my first sip and closed my eyes, letting the taste settle on my tongue. My eyes fluttered shut, not in exaggeration but in pure bliss — like heaven had briefly touched my lips.

 With the cup cradled in my hands and steam curling into the cold air, I started walking toward home. I live in a small apartment just outside the heart of Manhattan — close enough to feel the beat of New York’s nightlife even through my windows. The thumping music, the distant honking, and the laughter from nearby streets — it’s all part of the rhythm of this place. My building is old, with cracked paint on the stairwell walls and a buzzer that barely works, but it’s home.

As I reached my front door, I pulled out my jingling keys. Just then, I heard a worship song playing from inside.

Balancing my coffee in one hand, I unlocked the door and stepped inside.

 The music washed over me the moment I entered, and something in my chest shifted. The melody filled the space so completely, it seemed to soften everything inside me.

I walked into the living room and found my mom dancing — completely lost in the joy of her faith — while stirring a pot on the stove. She was making her favorite dinner, singing and smiling like the world outside didn’t exist.

It wasn’t anything new — my mom had always been madly in love with her God.

I paused and smiled, watching her make up new dance moves on the spot, just to express how happy she felt.

Dropping my keys into the bowl by the door, I watched as she twirled over to me, still dancing, and caught my hand.

“For the fullness of His grace, we’ve received one more blessing!” she sang joyfully, spinning me around in a circle.

“What blessing, Mom?” I asked, smiling. I always loved it when she danced like that.

She reached over and turned the speaker volume down.

 “I got a promotion,” she said, her eyes lighting up with joy.

“Wow, congratulations!” I rushed over and hugged her tightly.

“Yup,” she said with a tearful smile, nodding. “He always amazes me with His unexpected blessings. He knew I needed this — and He gave it to me.”

“Okay, tell me everything!”

She twirled again, her voice full of pride. “I’ve been promoted to head nurse — and there’s a salary increase too!”

“That’s amazing news, Mom!” I squealed, unable to hide my excitement.

“Did you tell Cassie yet?” I asked.

She shook her head.

“Then let’s call her and give her the good news!” I said, already pulling out my phone.

Cassandra is my older sister. She fell in love with a kind, honest man named Lucas. They both landed jobs in California and moved there last year. Sometimes I miss her. But if I’m being honest — I enjoy having the room to myself. Especially the window-side bed. After she got married, I claimed it without a second thought. No more sharing with my bossy sister!

I tapped her name and hit the video call button, setting the phone upright on the dining table.

“Hello, Cassie! How are you?” I shouted excitedly.

“I’m good. Did you give water to my Sammy?” Cassie asked the moment her face appeared on screen.

I rolled my eyes. Even after a whole year, she hadn’t forgotten her beloved potted plant.

She named it Sammy like it was her own child. She’s always been obsessed with plants.

“Yes, I did,” I sighed and handed the phone to Mom.

“Hey baby, how are you?” Mom beamed, her face glowing with joy.

I noticed Mom’s voice softened, as it always did when she spoke with Cassie.

“I’m good, Mom. You sound happy. What’s the good news?” Cassie asked, her smile bright even through the screen.

“Did Aly get a job?” she asked right away.

“No, she didn’t,” Mom answered quickly, like she was trying to shield me from Cassie’s questions.

“Mom got promoted to Head Nurse at the hospital,” I interrupted, cutting Cassie off before the questions about me began.

“Congratulations, Mom!” Cassie shouted joyfully.

Then her eyes shifted back to me, as expected. “Aly, how’s the job search going?” Ugh. I should’ve seen that coming.

“I’m searching,” I muttered, already annoyed.

 Mom noticed my face and jumped in. “She just finished college, don’t worry — she’ll get something soon.”

“Hey Mom, congratulations!” Lucas’s cheerful voice chimed in.

 The “rude” Cassie’s sweet husband. I adored him — always had my back, especially when Cassie got bossy.

“Hey, Lucas!” I said, leaning toward the phone again.

“Hey, Aly. So… did you get a boyfriend yet?” he teased with a playful grin.

“Nope. Not as lucky as Cassie,” I smirked at her.

“Don’t worry. I have a feeling you’re going to meet your man in the next five days.” He winked at the camera.

I laughed. “I trust your word, Lord Lucas.”

We hung up after a while and sat down to eat. It was a warm, peaceful dinner — just the two of us, filled with laughter and comfort. This is my small, happy family. We’re held together by love and faith.

We finished our supper while watching the evening news. But Lucas’s words stayed in my mind.

 Your man is close… you’ll meet him in five days.

I bit my lower lip and looked out the window, quietly whispering a prayer in my heart. I want to meet you too... whoever you are.