Michaella, a gifted writer, finds herself haunted by the memories of a love that slipped through her fingers. As she pens down her heartache and cherished moments with Gabrielle, an architect whose charm and warmth once made her world brighter, she...
Michaella woke up to the soft smell of fresh coffee and breakfast drifting through the air. It took her a moment to remember where she was, and then the events of last night washed over her. She sat up, realizing she had fallen asleep at Matthew's place after the emotional breakdown. The sun was shining brightly through the window, casting a golden glow over the room, making everything feel a bit lighter despite the heaviness in her chest.
She grabbed her phone and checked the time. It was already mid-morning. After a deep breath, she padded barefoot down the hall toward the smell. As she entered the kitchen, she was greeted by the sight of Matthew, Elijah, and Alan gathered around the table, mugs of coffee in hand, laughing about something she couldn't quite catch.
"Morning, Sleeping Beauty," Elijah grinned at her, getting up to pour her a cup of coffee. "We were starting to think you were going to sleep through breakfast."
"How are you feeling?" Matthew asked gently, his tone more concerned than teasing.
"I'm... better," Michaella admitted, though her voice was still raw from last night's tears. "Thank you for being there."
They shared a quiet moment before Alan, always the one to lighten the mood, chimed in, "Well, you're just in time. We were debating which breakfast joint does the best pancakes in the city."
Michaella smiled, appreciating the distraction. She sipped her coffee and joined in the conversation, the four of them chatting about everything from their favourite breakfast spots to the ridiculousness of old memories from their school days.
As they finished up breakfast, Michaella checked her phone again. She had a meeting at the publishing agency, and it was time to go. She set her mug down, thanking her friends for the morning and the much-needed company.
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"I'm heading to the agency. Wish me luck," she said as she slipped on her shoes.
"You've got this, Michaella," Elijah reassured her. "Just remember, whatever happens, we're here for you."
At the agency, Michaella's heart raced as she sat across from her publishing team. They had been discussing the second book for a while now, but the offer to write in London was unexpected.
"Two weeks?" she repeated after hearing the news. She had been preparing for just one week before her departure, but now this extra time gave her a sense of relief. "Actually, I'm happy with that. It gives me more time with my family and friends."
Her agent nodded. "Yes, the situation in London is a bit complicated right now, but it works out for the best. We're excited to see where you take the sequel."
After the meeting, Michaella left the building feeling lighter. Two weeks gave her room to breathe, time to say proper goodbyes, and maybe even tie up loose ends. She immediately thought of her parents, deciding to bring them lunch as a surprise.
