Chapter 58

• The evening air was crisp as Charlotte stepped into the cozy café, a place buzzing with low conversations and the comforting scent of roasted coffee beans. She had been apprehensive about dating again after her disastrous experience, but Janine had encouraged her to try once more, and this time, Charlotte felt hopeful. She was determined to keep an open mind, ready to embrace whatever the night had in store.
• Her date, Jake, was pleasant enough. Tall, with a warm smile and an easy laugh, he had a knack for keeping the conversation flowing. They exchanged stories over dinner, discussing everything from their favorite movies to their most embarrassing moments. Charlotte enjoyed the lightness of the interaction; it felt refreshing compared to the weight of her previous encounter with Matt.
• As the evening progressed, she found herself laughing more freely, the tension gradually melting away as they talked about travel plans and shared dreams. “I’m hoping to visit Japan next year,” Jake said, enthusiasm lighting up his face. “The culture, the food, the cherry blossoms—it’s all so fascinating!”