The coffee shop was cozy and welcoming, the kind of place that seemed to embrace its patrons with warmth as soon as they walked in. The rich, comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and faint hints of cinnamon filled the air, wrapping around Amelia as she stepped inside. Her gaze drifted across the room, settling on the corner table by the window where Liam was already waiting. A nervous thrill twisted in her stomach as she made her way over to him, mentally rehearsing what she’d say, reminding herself to stay calm, to keep the walls she’d so carefully built around her heart firmly in place. “Hi, Amelia.” His voice was warm as he looked up and caught sight of her. Liam’s smile was easy, genuine, and the way his eyes met hers with such calm assurance made her feel a little less on edge.

