Choosing Again
We built friendship first. He never pushed—just showed up.
For our fifth date, he cooked at home so a crowded restaurant wouldn’t trigger my panic. When anxiety struck again, he already knew the way back to calm.
A year after moving, my life had reshaped itself: promotion to senior marketing director, new friends, and—most surprising of all—real love with Zachary.
He remembered oat milk in my coffee, my favorite podcasts, and respected my independence. He never tried to change me.
I met his sister, Caroline, and we became friends ourselves—bonding over Portland stories and childhood memories.
I called my parents weekly. Dad sometimes joined, voice gentler now.
I visited twice, carefully timing trips to avoid Stephanie and Nathan.
Summary: Rebecca rebuilds her life—and this time, on her own terms.
