I moved to a small town to escape my past, hoping for a fresh start. The neighbors were overly friendly, and then I found a note: “I know who you are and what you’re running from. Be careful with new friends.” Suddenly, my new life felt suffocating.
The house was cold, lifeless, and filled with dust. As I unpacked, there was a knock at the door. A cheerful man, Michael, handed me coffee and welcomed me to the neighborhood, saying everyone here looks out for each other. Despite his enthusiasm, I felt uneasy.
Soon, Suzanne arrived with pies, sharing gossip about the town and Michael. She hinted he was single, but I just wanted to unpack. More neighbors followed, bringing gifts and asking personal questions. By the time they left, I was overwhelmed. That’s when I found another note: “I know who you are and what you’re running from. Be careful with new friends.”
The next day, Suzanne threw a party for me. Michael insisted I attend. At the party, I saw someone I never expected: Tim, my ex-boyfriend. I panicked, hiding behind the porch. Michael found me and warned me about choosing my friends wisely. I turned to Suzanne for help and stayed at her place.
Later, I told Suzanne the truth about Tim. He had threatened me when I told him I was pregnant, so I left to protect myself. Suzanne confessed that she invited him, thinking it would help her with Michael. Tim was staying in her guest room, waiting.
As we sneaked through Suzanne’s house, the doorbell rang. Tim appeared, and Michael confronted him. Tim explained he had been preparing for the baby and regretted his past actions. He even showed me a nursery he’d set up.
Suzanne was shocked by the truth, and I realized I’d misunderstood Tim’s intentions. He wasn’t a threat. Tim apologized for his past mistakes, and to my surprise, he proposed. I accepted, feeling all the fear and anger melt away.
As the tension eased, Suzanne and Michael laughed, and we spent the evening talking over tea. The night ended on a lighter note, with new beginnings ahead.