The hall was warm with amber light when Katherine and Kingsley stepped inside. Long tapestries draped the windows in calming earth tones, and two tall glass dispensers sat on a linen-covered table near the door—one filled with cucumber-mint water, the other with hibiscus iced tea. A row of handmade clay cups stood beside them, mismatched and charming.
Other couples were already arriving in slow waves—some holding hands, some walking apart. Quiet chatter filled the room like a low, cautious hum. It wasn’t loud. But it wasn’t silent either. And at the far side, seated close on a pair of floor cushions, were Carolina and Devon.
Carolina noticed them first and smiled, giving a small wave. Devon glanced up and offered a subtle nod. His hand rested loosely on Carolina’s knee, and for a moment,
