IT ENDS WITH US

managed to make a bit of progress unpacking, but there was still much to do. The previous night's social event replayed in her mind, e

her phone buzzed with a me

at Alex is organizing a small brunch at his café tomorrow. It's a g

on felt genuine. She knew she needed to build new connections and try to embrace

. It was a cosy spot with exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and a welcoming atmosphere

aring an assortment of pastries.

a steaming cup of coffee. "I hope you're ready

nd nerves. Grace soon joined her, along with a few other friends who were already de

ons. Lily found herself engaging in conversations about local events, favorite books, and

g sure everything was going smoothly. At one point, he joined Lily'

Denver been?" Alex asked, his

But last night and today have been really nice. It's good

er can be a bit of a maze at first, but

ened intently and engaged with her. His attention was genuine, a

walked Lily to the door. "I'm really glad you c

th a smile. "It was nice to meet ev

ut noticeable connection. "If you're free, we're having a s

y said, feeling a se

few days had unfolded. Meeting Alex and making new friends had been surprisingly comfo

as forming and the small moments of joy were beginning to outweigh the uncertainty she had felt since arriving.