I glance down at what I thought was a comfy, cozy, and cute outfit—my ‘Cool Adults Read Books’ oversized sweatshirt, shorts, and Keds. “What’s wrong with this? I am an adult. I do read books. So, I must be cool.”

Izzy bursts out laughing. “Girl, you’d better get going before you embarrass me in front of my fancy new business neighbors. Go on now. Shoo!”

With a wave and a faint smile tugging at my lips, I grab my bag and head for the door as the cool floral scents of Izzy’s shop follow me out, a stark contrast to the stress tightening and simmering in my chest.

My best friends’ successes feel like a bright beacon against the backdrop of everything I’m fumbling to hold together. My entire group of friends is either thriving in their careers, enjoying being single and carefree, or settled down with a family of their own. While everyone’s life is on green, mine is red.

Growing up, my dreams always seemed to stretch just beyond my reach, like stars I could see but never quite touch. But at one point, we celebrated our milestones together—friends and family, all cheering each other on…until everything changed. Now, my achievements feel modest by comparison, like background noise in a room full of louder success.

I once ticked all the boxes: bachelor’s and master’s degrees earned, certifications in hand, a stable career, and even married my high school sweetheart. Cory seemed like the ideal partner back then—charming, driven, the kind of guy who made big promises and wore ambition like cologne.

But he revealed himself to be the kind of man who schmoozes his way to the top. A true pro at climbing ladders, even if it meant stepping on others to get there. He was a teacher, assistant principal, then principal, and now superintendent of the Beverly Mills-Greer school district.

His ambition didn’t just overshadow my aspirations; it swallowed them whole. Our marriage became collateral damage in his relentless pursuit of power, leaving me in the wreckage with nothing but regrets and what-ifs. His rise came at a cost, particularly to me.

Chapter 2

Unexpected Opportunities – Kerry

While pondering my questionable life choices and even more questionable taste in men, I finally pull into the driveway of my cozy three-bedroom home. I pause, letting my gaze settle on the small, weathered porch and the warm glow spilling from the front window. I’ve been back here for two years now, and it’s been… well, interesting, to say the least.

With a sigh, I grab my bag, unlock the door, and step inside, bracing for the usual chaos that comes with having roommates.

But instead, I’m met with an eerie stillness. A stillness that feels wrong.