As I looked at that family photo, the laughter seemed to echo in my mind, taunting me with what I’d lost. I swallowed hard, thinking of my son, Harry, who wouldn’t speak to me—thanks to my cheating husband convincing him I had abandoned them.

“Lucy, is everything alright?” Miss Kinsley’s voice startled me.
“Oh—yes. Just a little tired,” I lied, wiping my eyes.

She studied me, then spoke gently. “Lucy, you’ve had a tough time, but my son notices these things. I need someone who can bring a bit of lightness to the house.”

“Please,” I whispered. “This job means everything to me.”

She placed a hand on my shoulder. “Sometimes holding on doesn’t help us heal. Letting go opens new doors. I hope you find your joy again.”

I nodded, forcing a smile as my heart cracked a little more.

Later, standing at the crosswalk, I was lost in thought until a car’s honk jolted me. I jumped, landing in muddy water as the car screeched to a halt.

“Are you blind?” the driver snapped. “You could’ve dented my car!”

Before I could respond, another man stepped out, his voice calm and kind. “Glen, stop. Are you hurt?”

His concern felt like a lifeline. He helped me up and offered to get me somewhere warm. I hesitated but eventually agreed.

We arrived at a mansion, and he introduced himself as George—my high school crush.

“George?” I gasped. “It’s been years!”

We reminisced, laughed, and talked about old times. Then his expression turned serious. “How have you been?”

I told him everything—the divorce, my son shutting me out, and losing my job that day. George took my hand.

“We can’t change the past,” he said softly, “but we have now. Maybe that means something.”

For the first time in ages, I felt a flicker of hope.
“Maybe it does,” I whispered.

His eyes twinkled. “How about dinner? Just two old friends catching up.”

I smiled. “I’d like that… but only if you promise not to run me over again.”

He chuckled. “Deal. No more near-misses.”

Life had a funny way of surprising us—especially when we least expected it.