Chapter 2 A Blast from the past

Author: Yusluvpro

The doorbell above the entrance jingled, and a tall, handsome man walked into the shop. His piercing blue eyes scanned the room, and his gaze landed on Lexi. For a moment, they just stared at each other.

"Can I help you?" Lexi asked, trying to sound professional despite the sudden flutter in her chest.

The man smiled, and his eyes crinkled at the corners. "Lexi Thompson? Is that you?"

Lexi's eyes widened as she took in the familiar features. "Julian Styles?"

They hadn't seen each other in years, not since high school. Julian had been the star quarterback, and Lexi had been the quiet artist. They'd had a brief, intense connection, but life had taken them in different directions.

Julian's smile faltered for a moment, and he looked around the shop. "I didn't know you owned this place. It's beautiful."

Lexi's cheeks warmed. "Thanks. I've worked hard to build it up."

As they chatted, Lexi couldn't help but notice the changes in Julian. He'd grown more refined, more confident. But there was still something about him that drew her in.

"I'm back in town to care for my mother," Julian explained. "She's been ill."

Lexi's expression softened. "I'm so sorry to hear that. Please give her my best."

As Julian prepared to leave, Lexi felt a pang of curiosity. What had brought him back to their small town? And what would happen if their paths crossed again?

Would you like me to:

A) Continue with Julian's return to town and his mother's situation

B) Explore Lexi and Julian's past connection and high school days

C) Introduce a new challenge for Lexi's shop, with Julian as a potential solution

Let me know, and I'll proceed!