Grace Morgan's POV

The coffee shop was decorated with a modern and minimalist aesthetic. The walls were painted a calming shade of light gray, accented with pops of color from abstract artwork. Sleek metal chairs and tables were strategically placed around the room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Soft jazz music played in the background, adding to the ambiance of the space. The smell of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air, tempting customers to order another cup. As patrons chatted quietly at their tables, the baristas behind the counter worked diligently. The overall vibe of the coffee shop was one of tranquility and warmth, making it the perfect spot for me to relax and catch up with Amber.

We took a seat by the window, enjoying the natural light streaming in and the view of the bustling street outside. I took the menu from the table and scanned the options, eager to try one of their specialty drinks. Amber leaned in and whispered, "I heard their caramel macchiato is to die for." I nodded in agreement, excited to indulge in a delicious treat.

As I walked up to the counter, I couldn't help but notice the intricate latte art on the drinks being served to other customers. The barista smiled at me and asked for my order.

"Two caramel macchiatos," I said, wanting both Amber and me to have a taste of what everyone was raving about.

"Great choice," I heard a deep, heavy voice beside me say. Startled, I turned to see a man standing next to me, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I would love to try the caramel macchiato," he added with a smile.

He was tall with a well-defined jawline, and his dark hair was perfectly styled. His chiseled features and piercing blue eyes made him incredibly attractive. There was an air of confidence about him that was undeniably appealing. Those glasses he was wearing added an intellectual touch to his overall appearance, giving him an air of sophistication. I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my stomach as I handed the barista my credit card for payment.

"I heard it's their trending drink." I said, trying to strike up a conversation. He chuckled and nodded in agreement. I couldn't help but wonder if he was a regular at this coffee shop, given his confidence in recommending a specific drink.

I realized I needed to get out of my daydream and focus on the task at hand, but his presence was undeniably distracting. As I waited for my drink, I couldn't help but steal glances in his direction, hoping to catch his eye again.

"I'm kind of new in town and looking for recommendations," he added, flashing a friendly smile. His easygoing demeanor made me feel more at ease in this unfamiliar place.

"Really?" I replied, feeling excited about the chance to talk. "I'd be happy to help you out with some local favorites," I offered, eager to engage in a friendly exchange with this charming stranger.

As our conversation continued, I found myself enjoying his company more and more. We talked about our favorite coffee shops and restaurants, and we even shared some funny stories about navigating a new city. Before I knew it, my drink was ready, but I wasn't quite ready to say goodbye just yet. I felt like I knew him for so long.

"Do you want to continue this chat over a cup of coffee?" he asked with a grin.

"I'm actually here with my friend," I replied, gesturing towards my friend, who was patiently waiting nearby.

"Maybe we can exchange numbers and meet up another time?" He suggested.

My mind went blank as I thought about Derek and how he doesn't like me to meet male friends without him present. Derek is even suspicious of me every time I go out to do chores. If Derek finds me texting a stranger and meets up with him, Derek would really kill me. I quickly made up an excuse about needing to leave soon and politely declined, feeling a pang of disappointment as I walked away.

"I didn't quite catch your name, though," the man asked.

I hesitated for a moment before I replied, "It's Grace Baker." His eyebrows shot up in surprise before he chuckled and said, "Well, it's nice to meet you, Grace."

"And what's your name?" I asked, genuinely curious about the man who had approached me.

He smiled and responded, "I'm Zane Devlin. Maybe we'll run into each other again sometime." As I walked away, I couldn't shake the feeling that our paths might cross in the future. Derek wouldn't have to know about this encounter after all.

The barista called out my name as she expertly layered the espresso and steamed milk with a perfect drizzle of caramel on top. As I carried the warm cups back to our table, the aroma alone made my mouth water in anticipation. Amber took a sip of her drink, and her eyes widened in delight. "Oh my goodness, this is amazing," she exclaimed. I couldn't agree more as I took my first sip and savored the rich, creamy flavor of the caramel macchiato.

"So who was the handsome man?" Amber asked with a mischievous grin, causing me to blush. I chuckled and replied, "Just a friendly stranger."

"I hate how you left your dreams to be with Derek; you didn't have to do that." I shrugged, feeling a pang of regret at the reminder of my past choices. "It's all in the past now," I said with a wistful smile, trying to push away the feelings of what could have been. In the past, I got so many offers from dancing agencies, but I chose love over my dreams. It's a decision I made, and I have to live with it. If I knew what Derek would become, maybe I would have chosen differently. But I can't dwell on that now.

"Are you happy? Lately, you seem a bit distant," Amber asked, breaking me out of my thoughts. Her eyes filled with empathy as she reached out to squeeze my hand in support.

I plastered on a smile and replied, "I'm fine, just going through a rough patch." Deep down, I wanted to tell Amber everything—about the dreams I buried and the regrets that haunted me. But instead, I kept it all locked away behind a carefully crafted facade. It was easier that way. Safer. And so, I continued to hide my true feelings, even as Amber's concern lingered in the air between us.

"And how is Mrs. Morgan? Is she still recovering well?" Amber inquired, her genuine concern evident in her voice. I nodded, grateful for the change of subject.

"Mom is better now; old age is catching up with her, but she's a fighter. Thanks for asking." I replied. Amber smiled warmly.

"I heard you are back with Michael now. How are things going between you two?" I asked. Amber and Michael broke up last year but have recently rekindled their relationship. She has a tendency to not let go of her ex's, but she can't bear people who don't treat her the way she deserves. Amber and Michael have recently rekindled their relationship after breaking up last year. Although I don't know the reason for their breakup, Michael seems to be patient and willing to work through their relationship.

Amber's smile faltered slightly, and I could sense a hesitation in her response. "Things are... complicated, but we're working through it," she replied softly. I could see the vulnerability in her eyes, a stark contrast to the confident facade she usually wore.

As we continued our conversation, Amber opened up about the challenges they faced during their time apart and how they were both committed to making things work this time around. It was clear that Amber was determined to make things right with Michael, despite the doubts and fears that lingered in the back of her mind.

Listening to Amber talk about her struggles made me realize that I wasn't the only one dealing with past decisions and their consequences. I felt a sense of empathy and admiration for her, knowing how difficult it can be to try again after a failed relationship.

We finished our drinks and headed out of the coffee shop, taking in the sights and sounds of the city around us. As we walked, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the bond of friendship we shared.

As we parted ways and I headed back home, I couldn't shake the feeling that an encounter with someone like Zane was exactly what I needed. It reminded me that life was full of unexpected surprises and that my regrets didn't have to define me. Perhaps it was time to start pursuing my dreams again, even if it meant taking a risk.

As I approached my house, I noticed that there was a new moving truck parked next door. I could see that the house was finally getting a new owner after being vacant for the past few months. Curiosity piqued, and I couldn't resist walking over to take a closer look.

As I got closer, I saw a woman unloading boxes from the back of the truck. She had a friendly smile on her face as she went back and forth between the truck and the house. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the thought of having a new neighbor.

She had long chestnut hair that cascaded down her back in loose waves, catching the sunlight as she moved. Her hazel eyes sparkled with warmth and kindness, giving off an aura of approachability. Despite the task at hand, she moved with grace and ease. As she caught sight of me watching, her smile widened.

"Hi, I'm Grace Baker. I live in the house next door. Welcome to the neighborhood!" I said, returning her smile. I knew right away that we were going to get along just fine.

"Oh, hi, I'm Freya Adair. It's nice to meet you, Grace. I'm looking forward to getting to know the neighborhood with you."

My eyes lit up with excitement as I responded, "I can't wait to show you around and introduce you to everyone!"

"Do you need any help?" I asked , eager to make a good impression and start our new friendship on the right foot. Freya shook her head and replied, "No, thank you. I think I can manage for now, but I appreciate the offer."

"So are you moving in alone or with family?" I inquired, curious to learn more about my new neighbor.

Freya smiled warmly and said, "Just me and my boyfriend. We wanted a fresh start in a new place together." I nodded in understanding, feeling happy for their new life and making them feel welcome in our community.

"It's nice to meet you, Freya; if you need any help, just knock on my door, and I'll be happy to assist," I offered, extending a friendly hand of neighborly support. Grace's eyes lit up with gratitude as she thanked me, and we parted ways.

As I walked back to my house, I couldn't help but feel grateful for such kind and welcoming neighbors. Previous neighbors had been distant and unfriendly, so it was refreshing to have such a positive interaction. Suddenly, there was a pop up message on my phone, and it was from Derek. He invited me to a dinner party tonight and told me to wear something nice.

I really do not understand Derek sometimes. This man burned my hand in the morning, and now he wants me to go with him to a dinner party in the evening. Despite my confusion, I decided to accept the invitation and see where the night would take me. It's not like I had any choice but to go along with it, considering the circumstances.