But through it all, the warmth of Karl’s hand is a constant, grounding me. Even in the throes of pain, I can't help but appreciate the intimacy of the moment. Our shared experiences in the kitchen, the dance of dishes and ingredients, have fostered a connection I never anticipated. I feel him glan

“I’m going with you. If you’re going back to that restaurant, I’m staying by your side.” A smile tugs at my lips. “Deal.” As we leave the hospital, the night air greets us, a stark contrast to the sterile environment inside. The city is alive, lights glittering in the distance, the gentle hu

… The fading ambient lighting casts long, delicate shadows across the bar, wrapping everything in an almost ethereal, intimate shroud. There’s a sense of stillness, like the world has paused just for me. I sit alone at the sleek mahogany counter, cradling a half-filled glass of white wine, its cri

Karl “What do you want?” Adam’s voice is apprehensive, and for good reason. It’s not everyday that I set food inside his restaurant, and it’s certainly not everyday that I show up telling him that I have a proposition for him. But I’ve been plotting this for a long time. Abby clearly doesn’

Abby In the dimly lit café, surrounded by the soft murmur of conversations and the aroma of fresh coffee, I sit with my friends, watching their eyes widen in disbelief as I relay the events of the past few days. “You broke up with Adam?” Leah, with her ever-present surprise, always finds a w