IT ENDS WITH US

art and a reminder of the upheaval she had left behind. The sunlight filtered through the large windows, casting long shadows on the hardwood floors, but for now, the apartment felt ho

ve, hoping a change of scenery would h

, her new neighbourhood. "Welcome to the neighborhood! I'm hosting a litt

finding her footing in a new city. But something about Grace's friendly invitation

ng. After a quick shower and a change into a casual yet presenta

fee, car exhaust, and blooming flowers. As she approached Grace's apart

mur of voices and the clink of glasses. The door to Grace's apartment was slightly ajar, and as Lily step

as cheerful as she came over to gree

ease. "Thanks for inviting me. It's

small talk with a few people, feeling her initial shyness begin to fade. The convers

noticed Alex Reynolds. He was talking animatedly, his laughter genuine and infectious. When Grace int

d, his smile warm and engaging. "H

d," Lily admitted. "B

eir experiences. Alex's genuine interest and kindness stood in stark contrast to what Lily had kno

hell and made a connection with someone who seemed different from anyone she had known before. A

er was still unfolding, and while the future was uncertain, she felt a renewed sense of possibility. For the fi