I’m home! Who missed me?” Georgia called out as she stepped out of the car, her voice light with forced cheer, but her eyes scanning the surroundings with a quiet longing.
The breeze welcomed her instantly, warm and gentle, brushing against her skin like a familiar hug. The scent of wildflowers, fresh earth, and sun-warmed grass swirled around her as she stood still for a moment, breathing it all in.
She closed her eyes briefly, letting the moment sink in.
It had been so long, too long, since she’d felt anything close to peace. No deadlines. No Jared. No Seraphina. No pretending to be fine.
Just this place.
The countryside looked just as she remembered it. The winding road, the small wooden gate, and the rose-wrapped cottage just ahead, glowing under the lazy afternoon sun. The gravel
