Chapter 21
First Snow of Spring
The snow had softened into a light drizzle, the first hints of spring sneaking into Hawthorne. Ivy pushed open the café door, greeted by the familiar aroma of fresh coffee and baked bread.
Lucas was already there, arranging flowers in a small vase on their favorite corner table. “Morning,” he said, smiling as she approached.
“Morning,” Ivy replied, brushing a strand of hair from her face. Her scarf still held traces of snow from her walk outside, but the warmth inside the café was comforting.
“You know,” Lucas began, pulling out a chair for her, “I was thinking… we should start a little tradition. First snow of every season—coffee, cocoa, maybe even cookies.”
Ivy laughed softly, taking her seat. “I like that. Makes even the changing seasons feel… special.”
They settled into their ritual, quiet and easy, hands brushing occasionally as they reached for mugs. Outside, the town stirred to life, but inside the café, time seemed suspended.
“Ivy,” Lucas said, voice low, “I’m glad we took things slowly. Every laugh, every snowball fight, every late-night walk… it’s all part of us.”
Ivy’s heart swelled. “Me too, Lucas. And I’m glad we’re still making memories—one season at a time.”
He reached across the table, taking her hand in his. “One season… and many more after that.”
They shared a quiet smile, the kind that said more than words ever could. Outside, the drizzle continued, soft and persistent, but inside, there was warmth, laughter, and love—steady and unhurried, just like them.
As Ivy sipped her cocoa, she realized something simple yet profound: life with Lucas wasn’t about grand gestures. It was about the quiet moments, the slow unfolding of love, and the comfort of knowing someone would always be there—through winter, spring, and all the seasons to come.
And with that thought, Ivy felt a gentle certainty settle in her chest: this was just the beginning.
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The End
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