A Brush of Blue

Chapter 12: Morning Light and New Beginnings

The soft glow of early morning sunlight filtered through the curtains of Selah's cottage, casting a warm hue over the room. Selah lay in bed, her heart still fluttering from the emotions of the previous night. The memory of the kiss she had shared with Naomi played over and over in her mind like a sweet melody she couldn't let go of. It was unexpected yet tender, filling her with a warmth that was both exciting and terrifying.

She had gone to bed with a smile on her face, and now, waking up, the same smile lingered on her lips. For the first time in what felt like forever, she felt light, almost weightless, as though the heaviness that had been pulling her down for months was slowly starting to lift. She had no idea what the kiss meant in the long run, but at this moment, she didn't care. It had felt right, and that was enough for now.

Rolling over in bed, Selah's eyes landed on the framed photo of Grace sitting on her nightstand. Her heart tugged slightly, the familiar pang of loss creeping in. The image of Grace, smiling brightly, brought a wave of bittersweet emotion. The ache was still there, but it wasn't as sharp as it had been before. Instead of the overwhelming grief that used to consume her, there was a quieter sadness now—a sadness that could coexist with the joy she was beginning to feel.

"Good morning, Grace," she whispered softly, running her fingers over the frame.

The smile on Selah's face deepened as her thoughts shifted back to Naomi. The warmth of her kiss, the way her presence made everything feel lighter, easier—it was something Selah hadn't realized she needed until it happened. Naomi had given her a glimpse of something she hadn't thought she could have again: a future that wasn't weighed down by loss.

Just as she was about to get out of bed, her phone buzzed on the nightstand. She reached over, her heart skipping a beat when she saw Naomi's name flash across the screen.

*Good morning :) How did you sleep?*

Selah's grin widened as she read the message. The simplicity of Naomi's words was enough to send a wave of warmth rushing through her. She quickly typed a response, her fingers trembling slightly with excitement.

*Morning! I'm feeling good. Better than I've felt in a long time, actually.*

A few moments later, her phone buzzed again with Naomi's reply.

*I'm really glad to hear that. I can't stop thinking about last night. You up for grabbing some coffee today? I'd love to see you.*

Selah's heart did a little flip. The idea of seeing Naomi again so soon made her feel giddy, but also a bit nervous. It had been so long since she'd allowed herself to feel this way—anything that wasn't tied to grief. But as much as the thought of diving into something new scared her, she couldn't deny the pull she felt toward Naomi.

She bit her lip, her excitement bubbling over as she typed her reply.

*I'd love that. When and where?*

Naomi's response came almost instantly.

*How about The Blue Haven Café in an hour? I'll meet you there :) *

Selah sent back her agreement, her heart racing as she set the phone down. Throwing off the covers, she practically leapt out of bed, her nerves and excitement mingling into a heady rush. The thought of seeing Naomi again, of spending more time together, filled her with a sense of anticipation she hadn't felt in so long.

In the bathroom, she paused for a moment, catching her reflection in the mirror. Her face looked brighter, lighter, like a shadow had lifted from her. She looked... different, happier even. The stark contrast to the woman who had arrived in Blue Haven months ago—grief-stricken, lost—was undeniable. Somehow, Naomi had started to bring her back to life.