Chapter 3 3

Rachel returned to the table, apologetic. "Sorry about that, Sierra. It was my assistant. We have an event coming up, and our event planner just cancelled on us. I'm in a bit of a bind."

Sierra's curiosity piqued. "What kind of event?"

Rachel hesitated, then asked, "Would you be interested in taking on the event planning job? I know it's last-minute, but I remember how talented you were at organizing events in the past. And it would be a great way for you to get back into the scene, if you're interested."

Sierra's heart skipped a beat. Event planning was her passion, and this opportunity seemed like fate. She thought about her boys, and how this could be a great way to provide for them while doing something she loved.

"That sounds amazing, Rachel," Sierra said, her excitement growing. "I'd love to take on the job!"

Rachel's eyes lit up as she shared more details about the event. "It's a charity gala, Sierra, and it's a huge deal for our community. We're expecting dignitaries and philanthropists from all over the world to attend and donate to our cause. The goal is to raise funds for community development projects, education, and healthcare initiatives. It's a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our community's potential and make a real difference in people's lives."

Sierra's enthusiasm grew as she listened. "That sounds incredible, Rachel! I can already imagine the possibilities. What's the theme, and what's the venue?"

Rachel smiled. "The theme is 'Unity in Diversity,' and we've booked the grand ballroom at the Willow Creek Manor. It's going to be a night to remember, with keynote speakers, cultural performances, and a silent auction. We need someone with your expertise to bring it all together."

Sierra's mind raced with ideas and visions. She could already see the potential for a stunning event that would leave a lasting impact on the community. "I'm honored to be a part of this, Rachel. Let's get to work and make it happen!"

Rachel's eyes widened with excitement as Sierra pulled out her phone to show her pictures of the twins. "Oh, I can't wait to see them! I've heard so much about Jack and Alex."

Sierra smiled, scrolling through her photos. "Here they are... aren't they just the cutest?"

Rachel cooed over the images, oohing and ahhing over the boys' adorable faces and mischief-filled grins. "They're absolutely precious! And wow, they look so much like Derek!"

Sierra's expression turned bittersweet, a mix of happiness and sadness. "Yes, they do. They have his eyes and smile... it's like seeing him all over again."

Rachel's expression turned sympathetic, understanding the complex emotions Sierra must be feeling. "I can only imagine how hard it must be for you, Sierra. But those boys are a blessing, and they need you. You're an amazing mom, and they're lucky to have you."

Sierra's eyes welled up with tears, touched by Rachel's kind words. "Thanks, Rachel. That means a lot coming from you."

While Sierra and Rachel continued to catch up and reminisce about old times, the door to the cozy cafe swung open and a familiar face walked in. It was none other than Matt, their former classmate from high school. His tall, athletic build and charming smile immediately caught their attention.

Matt's eyes scanned the room, and when they landed on Sierra and Rachel, a wide grin spread across his face. "Well, well, well! Look what we have here! The dynamic duo of Willow Creek High!"

Sierra's heart skipped a beat as Matt approached their table. She hadn't seen him in years, but the memories came flooding back. Rachel, too, looked delighted to see their old friend.

"Matt! Oh my gosh, it's been ages!" Rachel exclaimed, rising from her seat to give him a warm hug.

Sierra followed suit, feeling a little shy but happy to reconnect with Matt. "Hey, Matt! Long time no see!"

Matt took a seat with them, ordering a coffee as they chatted about their lives since high school. Sierra learned that Matt had gone on to play college football and was now a successful businessman. Rachel filled him in on her foundation and community work. As they talked, Sierra couldn't help but notice how much Matt had grown and matured, yet still retained his kind and charismatic personality.

As they reminisced about old times, Matt turned to Sierra and asked, "So, Sierra, what brought you back to Willow Creek?"

Sierra hesitated, unsure how much to share, but Rachel jumped in, "She's starting fresh, Matt! Sierra's got a new lease on life, and we're excited to have her back in town."

Matt's eyes sparkled with interest. "That's great to hear, Sierra! Welcome back, and I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot more of you around town."

The conversation flowed effortlessly, like no time had passed at all. Sierra found herself laughing and joking with Matt and Rachel, feeling a sense of belonging and comfort she hadn't experienced in a long time.

Matt glanced at his watch and said, "I'm so sorry, ladies, but I have to run. I have a meeting with a potential client soon."

Rachel and Sierra nodded understandingly, and Matt stood up to leave. As he said his goodbyes, he took Sierra's hand and gave it a gentle peck. "It was wonderful seeing you again, Sierra. I'd love to catch up more soon."

Sierra felt a flutter in her chest at the touch of his lips on her hand. "I'd like that, Matt," she replied with a smile.

"Great!" Matt exclaimed, pulling out his phone. "Let's exchange numbers, and I'll give you a call soon?"

Sierra nodded, and they exchanged contact information. As Matt walked out of the cafe, Sierra couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. She hadn't expected to reconnect with Matt like this, but she was glad they had.

Rachel noticed her friend's thoughtful expression and asked, "Hey, Sierra, what's on your mind?"

Sierra turned to Rachel with a smile. "Just thinking about how nice it is to reconnect with old friends, and maybe even make some new memories."

Rachel grinned knowingly. "I think Matt might be interested in making some new memories with you too."

Sierra's expression turned serious, and she leaned in closer to Rachel. "I have to be honest, Rachel. As much as I enjoyed seeing Matt, I'm not ready to jump into anything romantic yet. I have Jack and Alex to think about now, and I'm still processing everything that happened with Derek and our divorce."

Rachel's expression turned understanding and supportive. "Of course, Sierra. You've been through a lot, and you need time to heal and focus on your boys. They're your priority, and that's completely understandable."

Sierra nodded, feeling a sense of relief that Rachel got it. "Exactly. I need to prioritize my boys and our new life here. I'm not ready to open myself up to the possibility of getting hurt again."

Rachel reached out and put a hand on Sierra's arm. "You're strong and capable, Sierra. Take all the time you need. We're here for you, and when you're ready, we'll be here to support you every step of the way."

As they stepped out of the cozy cafe, Rachel gave Sierra a warm hug. "It was so great catching up with you, Sierra. I'll call you soon to discuss the event details, and I'll send you the address where we can meet up to start planning."

Sierra smiled, feeling grateful for their friendship. "Sounds perfect, Rachel. Thanks again for everything. I'm looking forward to hearing from you soon."

Rachel smiled back, her eyes shining with excitement. "Me too, Sierra! We're going to make this event amazing, and I'm so glad we're doing it together."

With one last hug, they parted ways, Sierra heading back to her car with a sense of hope and renewal. She felt grateful for the chance encounter with Rachel and the potential for a new chapter in her life.