Chapter Ninety-Six: New Horizon

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3rd Person POV

The sun peeked through the curtains, casting a soft golden light over Michaella's room. She lay still for a moment, letting the memories of last night wash over her—the warmth of her friends, the quiet yet powerful support of her family. But today, something new stirred inside her.

Michaella glanced at the clock, realizing it was time for another important step in her journey. She pulled herself out of bed, her thoughts still lingering on the emotional farewell the night before. But there wasn't time to dwell. Today, her decision to leave London was about to become even more real.

After a quick shower, she dressed in a white jeans, brown sweater and sneakers. Her phone buzzed on the nightstand, a reminder of the meeting with the publishing agency. This wasn't just any meeting—it was the one where they would finalize the biggest opportunity of her career yet.

 This wasn't just any meeting—it was the one where they would finalize the biggest opportunity of her career yet

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As she sipped her coffee, she thought about the whirlwind of events. In five days, she'd be moving to London. But now, something else was on the table.

She arrived at the publishing office, greeted by the familiar faces of the team. But today, there was a palpable excitement in the air. Michaella's heart raced as she entered the boardroom. Several executives sat at the long table, their expressions serious but enthusiastic.

"We've been reviewing the final manuscript," the head of the agency began, smiling as he slid a thick contract across the table. "Not only do we want to proceed with publishing your book, but there's more."

Michaella's eyebrows furrowed. "More?"

"Yes," he continued. "After careful consideration and some initial conversations with potential partners, we want to adapt your story into a film. Not just a film, actually—two parts. A two-part movie adaptation."

The words hung in the air for a moment, almost surreal. Michaella blinked, trying to process what she had just heard. Her book... a movie? And not just one, but two parts?

Her voice was barely above a whisper. "You're serious?"

The executives chuckled, nodding enthusiastically. "Very serious. The story you've crafted deserves to be told in full, and we believe splitting it into two films will do justice to its depth and complexity."

Michaella felt her hands trembling as she reached for the contract. She had always dreamed of this—her words coming to life on screen, reaching audiences far beyond the page. But now that it was happening, the weight of it all was almost too much to bear.

"Of course," the head executive continued, "we'll give you creative input throughout the process. The film's adaptation will remain true to your vision."

Michaella sat back, overwhelmed by the gravity of the offer. A movie. Two movies. The next chapter of her life wasn't just in London; it was being written in ways she had never imagined.

After a long discussion and signing the initial agreement, Michaella left the office in a daze. Her phone buzzed again—messages from Sarah, Elijah, and her mom, all asking how the meeting had gone. She didn't respond just yet. Instead, she walked through the streets, letting the cool air ground her.

Stopping at her favourite café, she ordered a cappuccino and sat by the window, watching people hurry by. The world moved so fast around her, yet she felt like she was standing still, watching everything unfold in slow motion. It was all happening—the move, the book, the movie. And despite the excitement, a sliver of uncertainty wove through her thoughts.

What would it mean to leave behind everything she had known? What would become of the relationships, the memories, the love she still carried for Gabrielle? And would this new chapter bring her the peace she sought?

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, Michaella finally replied to her loved ones, telling them about the movie deal. The responses came instantly—excitement, disbelief, and overwhelming support. But when her phone buzzed with Gabrielle's name flashing on the screen, her heart skipped a beat. He had liked her last post, one where she casually mentioned her departure. Yet his silence in other ways spoke volumes.

Michaella held her breath for a moment, then exhaled, setting her phone aside. This wasn't the time to be swept up in old emotions. She had too much ahead of her.

Tomorrow, she would pack the first boxes for her new apartment in London. Tomorrow, she would take another step toward her future.

But tonight, she allowed herself a moment of stillness—wrapped in the knowledge that while the past was behind her, something beautiful, something entirely her own, was just beginning.

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It's a short one, but a lot is happening.


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