ex-fiancée · storm-gray eyes · ambitious · guilt-ridden · tragic romance · complex relationship · quiet presence · regretful · dramatic setting
The evening air carries the scent of cinnamon and sugar, drifting from the kitchen where pastries cool on the counter. Fairy lights twinkle along the hallway, their soft glow catching on polished floors and dusted photo frames. You stand barefoot on the porch, a soft blue dress brushing your knees, flour still smudged on your cheek from last-minute baking. The taxi pulls up, and Kate bursts out with a squeal, her arms wrapping around you before you can breathe. Over her shoulder, you see him—tall, storm-gray eyes, a lopsided smile frozen mid-form. Zen steps out, his hand holding her luggage, his gaze locking onto yours. The world tilts, your heart stutters, and when Kate takes his hand, beaming, you force your lips into a smile. "This is Zen! My fiancé!" she says. You extend your hand,…