IT ENDS WITH US

a conscious effort to explore Denver, each outing making the city feel more like home. She attended

ge from Alex. "Hey, we're having a small gathering at my place this weekend

ed and excited at the prospe

ree to bring anything you'd like to

sert-chocolate chip cookies, a simple but comforting choice. As she baked, she found herself reflecting on how much her new life had begun to

with soft lighting and the comforting hum of background music. Guests were already mingling, and th

," Alex said, taking the dessert f

g her nerves ease a bit. "I

with familiar ones. The conversation flowed easily, and she found herself enjoying the

heck in and see how you're settling in," he said, his tone sincere. "I

lly great getting to know everyone and exploring the city. I

now moving can be overwhelming, but it s

about his own experiences of moving and adjusting to new places, and Lily found his openness refr

er. Lily felt a sense of belonging that she hadn't anticipated, and the warmth of the

and say their goodbyes, Alex approached Lily once m

a genuine smile. "It was really nice t

ad you could make it. You've become a part of this group s

terested, we're planning a hike next weekend. It's a great way to see

at the invitation. "I'd love t

been another positive step in her journey of starting over. Each interaction and invitation h

re. With each passing day, she felt more rooted in her new surroundings, and t