*Blurb:* "When Forever Calls" is a heartwarming romance novel about second chances, self-discovery, and the power of true love. After a chance encounter on a Manhattan rooftop, event planner Ashley Simpson and former Army Ranger turned photographer Jake Taylor embark on a whirlwind romance. As they navigate their past scars and fears, they find solace in each other's arms. Will their love be enough to heal their wounds, or will the shadows of their past tear them apart? Dive into this emotional and uplifting love story, exploring the complexities of the human heart and the transformative power of forever love. *Genre:* Contemporary Romance *Keywords:* Second Chance Romance, Self-Discovery, Photography, Event Planning, Manhattan, Army Ranger, Past Trauma, True Love. *Tagline:* "A chance encounter, a lifetime of love."
Chapter 1 CHANCE ENCOUNTER
Chapter 1: Chance Encounter of "When Forever Calls":
_Chapter 1: Chance Encounter_
Ashley Simpson stood at the edge of the rooftop bar, gazing out at the Manhattan skyline. The setting sun cast a warm orange glow over the towering skyscrapers, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers from the nearby park. She sipped her cosmopolitan, lost in thought.
As an event planner, Ashley's life was a whirlwind of weddings, galas, and corporate events. But tonight, she'd taken a break from the chaos to clear her mind. Her phone buzzed with notifications, but she ignored it, savoring the solitude.
Suddenly, a strong gust swept her phone off her hand. Ashley's heart sank as she watched it sail through the air, destined for the concrete below.
Time froze.
A stranger's hand shot out, catching her phone mid-air. Their eyes met, and Ashley felt an inexplicable connection.
"I guess fate wanted us to meet," the stranger said, handing her phone back.
Ashley smiled, her cheeks flushing. "Maybe."
The stranger's rugged features and piercing blue eyes captivated her. His dark hair was messy, and his worn jeans hinted at a relaxed, effortless style.
"Thanks for saving my phone," Ashley said, tucking it into her purse.
"No problem," he replied. "I'm Jake."
"Ashley."
They stood there, locked in a silent understanding.
Jake broke the silence. "What brings you here tonight?"
Ashley shrugged. "Just needed some fresh air. You?"
Jake leaned against the railing. "Same. I'm a photographer. Love capturing the city's energy."
Ashley's curiosity piqued. "That sounds amazing. What kind of photography?"
"Mostly landscape and portrait," Jake replied. "But I'm experimenting with street photography."
As they talked, Ashley discovered Jake's passion for art and his experiences as a former Army Ranger. His stories spoke of resilience and courage.
The rooftop bar's music shifted to a soulful melody, and Jake asked, "Would you like to dance?"
Ashley's heart skipped a beat. "I'd love to."
Their bodies swayed to the rhythm, hands touching, sparks flying. The Manhattan skyline faded into the background as they lost themselves in the moment.
As the song ended, Jake smiled. "Want to grab coffee with me?"
Ashley nodded, her pulse racing.
Their chance encounter had ignited a connection neither could ignore.
As they walked out of the rooftop bar, Ashley felt the city's energy pulsing through her veins. Little did she know, her life was about to change forever.
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