Saturday rolled around, and Lyka was already at my side, helping me with the move in to my new apartment. The place that I got is very cozy—not too big, not too small—with just the right amount of space to feel like home. The living room also was spacious enough for me to turn part of it into a small gallery for my photography and a mini studio for projects. And speaking of bedroom, it was snug a little but comfortable, a perfect fit for me to settle into this new life in Alpharise City.

After just couple of hours we were done organizing a few things when we decided to head back down to grab the last of my stuff from Lyka’s car. I was bent over, reaching into the trunk to haul out a box, when Lyka suddenly froze.

“Uh… Moriah,” she whispered, poking me insistently, but I was too focused on getting a good grip on the box.

“Just a sec, Lyka, I’m almost—”

“No, seriously,” she hissed, nudging me with her elbow harder this time. I straightened up, finally looking at her, only to see her wide eyes staring just past me. I turned to see what she was looking at, and my heart skipped a beat.

There, standing a few steps behind the car, was Evan. His hands were casually tucked into the pockets of his black jeans, and he was wearing that easy, familiar grin, topped off by his signature cap as always. The way he smiled at me made it feel like the air had gone still, leaving only us in that moment.

“Hey, Moriah." he greeted, his voice soft but warm.

For a second, I just stood there, completely caught off guard.

I managed to gather myself enough to give him a small smile. “Evan… what are you doing here?”

Lyka stood just behind me, practically vibrating with excitement, her eyes alight with that teasing smile she could barely keep in check. I was trying to keep my own expression steady, but having Evan here felt surreal.

He gave a small laugh, looking almost sheepish. “Believe it or not, I actully forgot to tell you that I live just down the next street. I was walking by and saw this car… figured it was yours, so I thought I’d drop by and see if you needed any help moving in.”

“Oh, you live nearby?” Lyka interrupted, surprised as she went giggling beside me.

“Yeah,” he nodded. “Didn’t think I’d see you... guys here so soon, but… here we are."

I can feel Lyka’s excitement building. She stayed quiet, but I didn’t miss the way she kept nudging me from behind, probably holding herself back from jumping in with some comment.

"And you are ... " Evan looking curious up to Lyka who was still grinning at me like she was keeping some big secret.

Lyka quickly stepped forward, her hand outstretched. “I’m Lyka, Moriah’s best friend—and believe it or not, I actually know you too,” she said with a playful smile. “From the summer college camp… ten years ago.”

Evan’s eyebrows shot up. “Oh, really?” He let out a short laugh, looking genuinely surprised. “I’m so sorry, I don’t remember… ten years is a long time.”

Lyka smirked and shrugged. “Hey, no worries. I mean, it’s not like we were messaging back and forth online or anything.” She shot me a teasing glance. “I guess that privilege was reserved for a certain someone?”

Evan chuckled, looking right at me. “Yeah, well… Moriah and I actually stayed in touch for some couple of times before, you know?” He glanced at me with a warmth in his eyes that made my pulse race. “She was… kinda unforgettable.”

I felt my face go hot, but I tried to play it cool, giving Lyka a helpless look. She only grinned wider, giving me a look that practically screaming, I told you so.

“So… is Lyka moving in with you?”

I shook my head, smiling. “Nope, she’s just here to help me settle in.”

Lyka shrugged with a laugh. “I mean, I wouldn’t mind sticking around! But no, I’m just here for moral support—and to make sure she doesn’t overthink her decorating choices.”

Evan chuckled. “Well, in that case, do you need another set of hands?” He glanced at the boxes stacked in the car’s trunk. “I’d be happy to help you get everything inside.”

Lyka and I exchanged a quick look, and then I nodded, unable to hold back a smile. “Sure, that’d be great. Thanks, Evan.”

With a grin, Evan rolled up his sleeves. “Alright, let’s get you moved in!”

Lyka elbowed me lightly as he turned to grab a box, and her look said it all—this day just kept getting better.

Evan carried a box ahead of us, stepping into my new apartment with ease. I followed behind him with Lyka, who nudged me with a mischievous grin the second we were out of his line of sight.

“So… you’re just gonna let him walk in and out without asking which house is his?” she whispered, clearly loving every second of this.

I rolled my eyes, but I couldn’t keep from smiling. “Lyka, I’m not going to ask him that. I’ll sound like a stalker!”

She waved a hand, shrugging. “Oh, come on. It’s a friendly question! If he lives on the next street, what’s the harm in asking, hmm?” She nudged me again, giving me a teasing look. “Besides, don’t you want to know? Just… for research purposes?”

I let out a sigh, glancing up as Evan placed the box on my coffee table and turned back toward us. “You’re impossible,” I whispered to Lyka, but she just laughed and whispered back, “You’re welcome.”

Evan glanced at me, casually asking, “So, have you had a chance to check out the neighborhood yet?”

I shook my head, feeling a little sheepish. “Honestly? Not yet. I’ve been so busy with everything; I haven’t had the time.”

He nodded, then started listing off a few essentials with a reassuring smile. “Well, there’s a grocery store just down the main road, and a convenience store closer to your block. There’s a water station a few minutes away if you turn left outside this street, and the neighborhood has a pool and a park too if you ever want a place to unwind. And if you need any help with the apartment, the homeowners’ association office is over on the north side, you can ask some street guards for direction incase you- may forgot.”

Before I could even thank him, Lyka jumped in, clearly unable to resist. “So, where exactly do you live, Evan?” She shot me a grin, nudging me playfully. “You know, just in case Moriah here needs some extra… personal help.”

Evan chuckled, catching the hint of her teasing but answering earnestly. “I’m actually just on the next street over. House number 23 with brown and black gate infront. And you’re welcome to stop by anytime, Moriah—if you ever need anything or just want to say hi.”

Lyka flashed me a triumphant smile, whispering, “See? No harm in knowing.” I did my best to ignore the heat rising to my cheeks, but a small smile crept in.

Evan glanced around, checking if there was anything else to bring in. "You two need any more help with this?”

I shook my head, trying to stay composed. “No, that’s everything. Thanks so much, Evan. Really."

He flashed a smile, stepping back toward the door. "Alright, I better shoot off, then. Got some prep to do for Monday. Team’s first project day—you know how it is."

I smiled, feeling that familiar warmth in his easygoing tone. “See you Monday, then,” he said, grateful but trying to keep it cool.

“Definitely, Monday it is,” I replied, offering a last, casual wave before he head out.

As soon as Evan closed the door, Lyka and I locked eyes, and she let out a shriek. “Did you see the way he was looking at you? Moriah, he was totally into it!” She pulled me into a hug, practically bouncing with excitement.

“Lyka, stop!” I laughed, but my cheeks were already burning. “He was just being nice. I mean, he’s my… teammate.”

“Oh, please,” Lyka scoffed, rolling her eyes. “He didn’t just come over because he’s your ‘teammate.’ He literally lives next street, but he made a whole trip over to check if you needed help! You’re telling me that’s nothing?”

I couldn’t help grinning, replaying the way he stood there, easygoing and helpful. “I mean… maybe. But I don’t want to get my hopes up, you know?”

Lyka raised her eyebrows. “Uh-huh. But you better be ready for Monday, because girl, that man is not missing a chance to see you.”

I laughed, shaking my head. “You think so?”

“Oh, I know so.” She smirked, nudging my arm. "I’m so excited for you! Now you better text me every single detail as soon as you get home from work on Monday. I want to know everything.”

“Promise.” I nodded, still trying to process that this was real. As we sat down on the floor surrounded by boxes, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling up. Monday couldn’t come fast enough.

****

After some few unpacking and organizing, I decided to take a quick breather and I just realized from looking outside the window that its already nigh. I double check my watch and as I felt my stomach crumble, it is an obvious sign that I have to eat something for dinner. However, I realize that my kitchen equipments and utensils are not yet completely out of the box, I was only able to oragnize few necessary stuffs but I'm all out of energy to cook. Maybe this is a good time now to explore the neighborhood and just get a quick run at convenience store to get something to eat.

Walking down the street, I took in the sights of my new surroundings—the faint sounds of laughter from nearby houses and the scent of something delicious wafting through the air. Just as I was getting lost in thought, I noticed a golden retriever bounding toward me, its leash dragging behind it. The dog was all energy, its tail wagging excitedly, but I could see it was panicked too, probably having escaped from its owner.

“Oh no, come here, buddy!” I called, bending down as the dog came closer. After a few moments of coaxing and calming, I managed to secure the leash and hold on to the golden retriever. “Easy there, you little troublemaker,” I murmured, scratching behind its ears.

With the dog now walking alongside me, I started searching for its owner, glancing around for anyone who might be looking for their lost pet. Suddenly, I heard a voice from behind me, calling out a name.

“Winston! Oh my gosh, Winston!”

I turned to see a girl running toward me, her expression a mix of relief and joy. She threw her arms around the golden retriever, who wagged his tail excitedly at the sight of her.

“Winston!” she exclaimed again, giving him a playful shove as he licked her face.

It took me a moment to realize who she was. Maya I said just to myself internally. She is Evan’s sister, who I had only seen in through social media, and she is now standing right in front of me.

"Thank you so much for catching him!” she said, beaming at me. “I thought he was lost for good. You have no idea how much this means to me.”

Maya brushed a few strands of hair behind her ear. “I can’t believe Winston got away from me. I was just taking him for a quick walk, and he got distracted by a cat,” she laughed, giving the dog a gentle nudge.

"No worries. I was just about to head to the convenience store to grab some dinner when he ran towards me,” I explained, passing to her Winston’s leash.

Maya’s eyes lit up. “Well, since you helped me out, how about you come over for dinner? I made way too much, and it would be great to have someone to share it with!”

I hesitated, caught off guard by her invitation. “Oh, I don’t want to impose. I’m sure you have plans—”

“Please! It’s just us at home tonight. My brother’s busy with work, and my Dad is out of the city. It’ll be fun! I promise I’ll make it worth your while.” She smiled sweetly, and I felt myself wavering.

“Alright, just for a little bit,” I finally said, feeling my stomach growl at the thought of a home-cooked meal.

“Great! Just follow me!” Maya replied, practically skipping down the street, Winston happily trotting beside her.

As we approached her house, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. This was the first time I would be stepping into Evan’s home, and I wonder what will I do if I see him around.

As I stepped into Maya and Evan's house, I felt a mix of warmth and curiosity. Their home had a welcoming vibe, filled with subtle personal touches and a cozy ambiance that instantly put me at ease. Maya unhooked Winston’s leash, letting him scamper freely through the living room as she guided me further inside.

"Make yourself at home!" Maya said cheerfully, waving me towards the living room. I smiled and thanked her for the warm welcome, my eyes wandering around, taking in the family photos on the walls and the lived-in comfort of the space.

Just then, Maya called out, "Oh, hey! Evan!" I turned around to see Evan emerging from the kitchen, a water tumbler in hand—and, to my complete surprise, shirtless. He froze for a second, probably not expecting to see me either.

I couldn’t help but stare, a bit too stunned to look away immediately. Evan wasn’t overly muscular, but he was definitely toned, his broad shoulders and defined abs catching the light just right. His skin gleamed slightly with a hint of sweat, as if he just finished a workout.

Realizing I was still looking, I quickly diverted my gaze, my cheeks warming up.

“Hey, Moriah!” Evan greeted, breaking the brief silence. He seemed slightly taken aback but composed, a hint of amusement in his eyes as he noticed my reaction.

"Evan, you know Moriah?" Maya asked, glancing between the two of us as she was already heading toward the kitchen, her expression casual, as if nothing about the situation was unusual.

“Yeah, we work together.” Evan replied, his voice easy and take a quick gulp of water from his water tumbler.

I nodded, trying to find my usual composure. “I just moved into the neighborhood this morning,” I added a little uncomfortable, knowing that Evan is still just standing there - shirtless, keeping my tone light enough for Maya to hear.

Maya’s eyes brightened with understanding. “Oh! That’s perfect! And it’s so sweet of you to catch Winston when he ran off like that.” she said, smiling at me before turning to Evan with a playful smirk. “Now, if you’re joining us for dinner, maybe take a shower and put on a shirt?” She wrinkled her nose in mock disgust, then laughed and glanced at me apologetically. “Sorry, Moriah, I have to remind him sometimes.”

Evan rolled his eyes but grinned back. “Alright, alright. I’ll be back in a few,” he said, heading toward to what I assumed was his room.

Maya turned to me, nodding toward the kitchen counter. “Come on over! I’ll show you what I’m making.” As we walked to the kitchen, I felt my shoulders relax, though a part of me still buzzed from the unexpected sight of Evan.

Maya started talking about her recipes, explaining each dish with enthusiasm, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful to her for inviting me over. Just moments after, Maya set the table with a mix of her homemade dishes, and we all sat down together, the cozy kitchen filling with a comforting aroma. As soon as everyone started serving themselves, Maya broke the silence with her usual energy.

“So, Moriah,” Maya began with a smile, “tell me about what got you into photography. I mean, from what Evan said, you’re part of the new team, right?”

I nodded, swallowing a bite before answering. “Yeah! I’ve always loved capturing moments, even in college. But honestly, I didn’t expect to find myself working with someone like Evan—kind of feels like everything lined up just right.” I glanced at him and caught a small smile on his face before he looked down at his plate.

Evan joined in, his tone curious. “And did you always plan on moving to Alpharise City?”

“Not exactly,” I admitted. “It kind of just fell into place when I got accepted into the internship program here. Plus, it’s a good chance to explore more options, you know?”

Maya nodded, looking genuinely interested. “That's brave! A big move, new job, everything all at once,” she said, passing me a dish of pasta. “So do you think you'll stay here after your internship?”

I paused, glancing at Evan. "I'm not sure yet. I want to see how everything plays out, but I’d love to stay if things go well."

Maya grinned mischievously, leaning forward as she took a sip of her drink. “So, Moriah, now that we’ve covered your move and your career, I have to ask—are you in a relationship?” She shot a teasing glance at Evan, who was pouring himself more water.

I nearly choked on my pasta, surprised by the question. “Oh! Um, no. I’m single,” I managed to reply, my cheeks flushing. “I haven’t really thought about dating much, to be honest.”

Maya raised an eyebrow, a playful grin spreading across her face. “Well, my brother here has been single for as long as I can remember,” she said, leaning back with a smug expression. “You’d think he’d at least try to show some interest, right? I mean, I remember a long time ago I caught him chatting with this girl for hours one day—grinning like a fool the entire time!”

Evan’s eyes widened, and he nearly choked on his water, coughing lightly as he shot a glare at Maya. “Can you not?”

Maya laughed, unbothered. “I’m just saying! He’s so secretive about his feelings, it’s ridiculous. I swear, if he put half the effort into dating as he does into his work, he might actually get somewhere!”

I couldn’t help but grin, trying to stifle my laughter as I watched Evan squirm in his seat. “Wow, that’s quite a revelation.” I teased lightly, enjoying the banter.

“Okay, okay. I just prefer to keep my life private,” he defended, a hint of amusement in his tone.

As the conversation drifted back to lighter topics, Maya suddenly turned to me with an approving smile. “You know, Moriah, you’re really pretty. I mean, seriously! You’ve got this natural charm.”

“Oh, um, thank you,” I replied, caught a bit off guard and feeling my cheeks warm up.

Evan, in the middle of a sip of water, glanced over at me. He tried to keep it subtle, but his eyes lingered just a moment too long, scanning through the rim of his glass. I caught the way his gaze traveled over me, though he quickly averted his eyes once he realized I’d noticed.

Maya, oblivious to her brother’s subtle glances, kept on. “I’m telling you, it’s probably only a matter of time before you catch someone’s eye in the neighborhood—or at work,” she added, throwing a teasing look Evan’s way.

Evan almost choked on his drink again, setting the glass down with a little more force than necessary. “Maya, seriously,” he muttered, clearly embarrassed. But I could still see the faintest hint of a smile on his face, as though he didn’t entirely mind her playful comments.

Trying to stifle my own smile, I glanced down, feeling that undeniable warmth spread through me as we continued the meal, each exchange making me feel more and more at home in their company.