I survived on budget ramen and clearance frozen meals. Every spare dollar went into a jar labeled “Sweet Haven” in my shaky handwriting. It took years to save enough to open the bakery. During that time, I got married, earned a promotion, learned new recipes, and took free online business courses. Opening day was everything… CONTINUE READING »
The rain had stopped just before sunset, leaving the city streets glistening under the golden hue of the streetlamps. In a modest apartment on the far side of town, Emma Carter stood in front of a mirror, smoothing the deep navy gown over her hips. It had been years since she’d worn anything this glamorous…. CONTINUE READING »
From the couch, a small voice piped up. “Mom, are you sure we’re allowed to go?” For illustrative purposes only. Emma turned to see her six-year-old son, Lucas, sitting with his tiny suit jacket buttoned all the way up. He looked like a miniature gentleman, his sandy hair combed neatly to the side. “We’re not… CONTINUE READING »
She took his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. Emma had been raising Lucas on her own since he was barely a year old. His father, overwhelmed by the reality of responsibility, had walked away before Lucas could form his first sentence. Those early years had been a blur of late-night feedings, part-time work,… CONTINUE READING »
Still, there were moments that tested her. The gala tonight was one of them. It was being held at the Harrington Estate, a sprawling mansion on the edge of the city. Emma had been invited because, months earlier, she had helped the Harrington family matriarch after a fall at the community center. Emma had been… CONTINUE READING »
When they arrived, the mansion looked like something from a dream. Tall white columns rose into the twilight sky, golden light spilling from grand arched windows. The sound of laughter and music floated through the air. Emma felt Lucas’s small fingers tighten around hers. “You ready?” she whispered. He nodded, though his eyes stayed wide…. CONTINUE READING »