seaside serenity in snow, lucy bronze

chapter 3

The morning sun streamed through the curtains of Lucy's flat, casting a warm and gentle glow on her face as she groggily reached for her phone, which rested on the nightstand. With a mix of anticipation and curiosity, she unlocked the device and navigated to her messages. Her heart quickened as she saw the familiar thread of their conversation.

And there it was, a message from Morgan herself, a series of laughing emojis punctuating her words. Lucy couldn't help but grin as she read Morgan's playful response, realising that her attempts to decipher the meaning of "M.E." from the previous night hadn't gone unnoticed. She felt the gentle sense of embarrassment flowing through her body.

Morgan: You had some interesting guesses last night, Miss Bronze! But I couldn't keep you in suspense any longer. M.E. stands for Morgan Elizabeth.

Lucy chuckled softly, her fingers dancing across the screen as she typed her response, her heart lightened by the clarity that Morgan's message had brought.

Lucy: Haha! Morgan Elizabeth - what a beautiful name! You had me guessing all night. No worries, though. I couldn't have asked for a better reveal.

Morgan's message continued and Lucy's heart swelled with understanding and empathy as she read the next words.

Morgan: I'm sorry for keeping you waiting last night. I had every intention of responding, but as soon as I got back to my hotel room, exhaustion took over and I fell asleep. Like literally stumbled to my bed and was knocked out instantly.

Lucy's smile remained and she couldn't help but admire Morgan's sincerity and thoughtfulness. She quickly replied, her words filled with warmth and genuine understanding.

Lucy: No need to apologise, love. I completely understand. We had quite the night, didn't we? And now that I know your name, it feels like we're taking a step closer. How's your morning going?

Lucy hit send, her heart racing with anticipation. She knew that this was more than just a friendly exchange of messages. It was the unveiling of secrets, the exploration of a connection that held the promise of something deeper. As she waited for Morgan's response, she couldn't help but wonder what this new day would bring and how their story would continue to unfold.

Her phone chimed, signalling Morgan's response and Lucy's heart skipped a beat as she eagerly read the message.

Morgan: My morning's off to a great start now that I have heard from you, lovely. I have a bit of downtime before my next article needs to be drafted and published, so I'm savouring a cup of coffee and taking in the view from my hotel window. How about you?

Lucy could not help but smile at Morgan's words. It was amazing how a simple exchange of messages could feel so meaningful, like a bridge connecting their worlds. She quickly replied, her own excitement evident in her words.

Lucy: That sounds lovely, M. As for me, I'm still in Manchester and I have some free time before I head to my next interview. Maybe we could grab a coffee together if our schedules align? Well, another coffee for you but I don't care about that haha!

The seconds ticked by as Lucy awaited Morgan's response. The possibilities of their connection were beginning to unfold, like the pages of an enticing story and Lucy was feeling impatient and felt that this day held the potential for something wonderful.

Morgan's reply came swiftly and her enthusiasm was palpable.

Morgan: I'd absolutely love that! Let's make it happen. How about this afternoon? There's a charming little café not far from here (no, it's not Jill's haha). I'll send you the details.