Chapter 1: The First Sparks

  Emma had grown up in the cozy warmth of her family's café, The Maple Brew. It was a beloved spot in town, known for its comforting ambiance and the best cinnamon lattes. Despite being moderately wealthy, Emma never flaunted her status. She was kind, independent, and a little stubborn when it came to things she loved.

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  One evening, her parents invited her to a party hosted by Liam’s family. Their families had been friends for years, though Emma and Liam had never been particularly close. However, that changed when Liam saw Emma in a navy-blue dress, her curls bouncing as she laughed with Charlotte and Millie.

  “You look... different,” Liam said, catching her off guard.

  Emma raised an eyebrow. “Different good or different bad?”

  Liam chuckled. “Different like—wow.”

  That night, their conversations flowed effortlessly, and by the time Emma left, she knew something had changed between them.