With a deep breath, I began the process of packing away the things that had once meant so much. The wedding photos, the little trinkets she’d loved, the carefully folded clothes—all of it was a part of our past, but it didn’t need to dominate my present. As I worked, I thought about Nicola—her laug
Nicola Taylor I came home very late, the clock already ticking past 9 PM as I unlocked the door and stepped inside. Exhaustion weighed on my shoulders after a long day of back-to-back classes, but a strange, persistent noise pulled me out of my weary daze. It sounded like construction—hammering, d
Cole looked at me with a calm expression, as if the answer should have been obvious. “Bella’s room is too small for her now. I think she wants a bigger one.” His tone was so nonchalant that it only made my confusion and frustration grow. “So you’re just… demolishing your old room? Just like that?”
Nicola Taylor As I stepped out of the shower, wrapping myself in a fluffy towel, I felt the exhaustion of the day finally catching up to me. It had been a long evening, dinner out with some friends, and I was more than ready to collapse into bed. I slipped into my favorite nightdress, a soft, comfo
“Finn, I’m hanging up now,” I repeated, firmer this time. “Go home. Sleep it off.” Before he could protest further, I ended the call, letting out a long, exasperated sigh. I stared at my phone, half-expecting it to buzz again, but thankfully, it stayed silent. Shaking my head, I placed the phone b
Nicola Taylor As I stood in line at my favorite café, the familiar scent of freshly brewed coffee and pastries enveloped me, providing me with comfort. I was there to pick up my usual—an indulgent caramel macchiato—and the drinks for my family: Cole’s strong, black coffee and Arabella’s sweet straw
Cole’s frown deepened as he glanced at me, his eyes searching mine for an explanation. I could see the hurt and confusion swirling in his gaze, and it only made the knot in my stomach tighten. I knew this conversation was inevitable, but I had hoped we could avoid it, at least for today. We walked
Cole Harrington I entered the bedroom quietly, my footsteps barely making a sound on the plush carpet. Nicola was sitting on the bed facing me but she didn’t notice me. Her eyes were fixed on the screen, typing something furiously on her laptop. The rhythmic clacking of the keys filled the room, an