CHAPTER 1

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Lisa excitedly hugged her best friend, Jayden, at the café they used to adore during their high school days. The familiar scent of roasted coffee and pastries wrapped around them as they took their seats.

"How have you been?" they both asked in unison, laughter bubbling between them.

Jayden grinned and replied, "I already ordered our usual," a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Your favorite—caramel macchiato, right?"

Lisa beamed with gratitude. "Thanks! You always remember."

As they settled into comfortable conversation, Jayden began sharing stories about his life. He filled Lisa in on everything—the new job, his recent travels, and the little victories he'd celebrated since their last catch-up. But then, with a playful pause, he dropped a bombshell.

"I'm engaged!"

Lisa's eyes widened in surprise. Jayden had purposely held back the news, knowing Lisa would come back from her work as an artist in different countries, eager to share in his joy.

"Wow, That's amazing! Christine was ready to deal with your attitude" Lisa Laughs.

"What are you talking about? I've bee a good boy to our relationship, you know that" Jayden laughs.

"Congratulations, dude! I am so happy for you," Lisa exclaimed, her excitement radiating. Her face glowing with joy.

Jayden grinned, appreciating the enthusiasm.

"So, when's the wedding?" Lisa asked, picking up her cup and taking a thoughtful sip of her caramel macchiato.

Jayden leaned back, fingers tapping the edge of his own cup. "Well, Christine and I want it to be spectacular, you know? We've been talking about having something really special, something awesome and unforgettable. But honestly, we haven't nailed down the final date yet. Hopefully, it'll be within the year. We just need to work out a few more details before we can set it in stone." He smiled sheepishly, as if apologizing for the lack of specifics.

Lisa raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile curling her lips. "With that statement of yours, I can already picture something bizarre," she chuckled softly. "Like fireworks, or some crazy themed event. Maybe even you and Christine parachuting into the reception!"

Jayden laughed, his eyes lighting up at the thought. "I think that's too much, We've been brainstorming all kinds of ideas. We want it to be a wedding no one will forget. Something that's not just romantic, but fun and out of the ordinary." He paused, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "You know us—we love making a statement."

Lisa smiled, taking another sip of her coffee. "Well, knowing you two, it's definitely going to be one for the books."

Jayden nodded. "That's the goal," he agreed, his voice full of excitement.

As the excitement simmered, Jayden smoothly transitioned the topic back to Lisa. He leaned in, a teasing smile on his face. "So, when's your turn?"

Jayden is very much aware that Lisa like girls ever since. He how she falls in love and cried so much with her ex-girlfriend during their college years.

Lisa shrugged, a hint of playfulness in her eyes. "I've been busy with clients," she replied, deflecting the question.

But Jayden wasn't ready to let it go. "You sure that's not something to do with Jennie? "

The mention of her ex stirred something deep within Lisa, but she brushed it aside. "That was ages ago, Jayden. I'm over it."

Yet, even as she said the words, the memories lingered—of laughter, love, and heartbreak.

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