Chapter 25

• The bell above the door jingled as Lucy walked into the store, the familiar sound signaling the start of another workday. It had become routine by now—stocking shelves, managing the register, helping customers find what they needed. But today, there was something different in the air. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it, but a part of her was both eager and anxious as she went about her tasks.
• She was adjusting some items on one of the lower shelves when she noticed someone standing nearby. Lucy glanced up and nearly dropped the box she was holding. The man standing in the aisle was the kind of handsome that made heads turn—tall, with sharp cheekbones, dark hair that was effortlessly tousled, and eyes that gleamed with a hint of mischief. He was dressed casually but with a certain style that gave away his attention to detail—tailored jeans, a crisp white shirt, and a sleek leather jacket that made him look effortlessly cool.
• “ Hi there, ” he greeted her with a warm smile, his voice smooth and friendly. “ You look like you could use some help with those. ”