The leaves had mostly fallen now, carpeting Maple Lane in shades of rust and gold. The air carried a sharper bite in the mornings, and Elias had started bringing an extra blanket out to the porch swing in the evenings. Life had found a new rhythm — slower, more honest, and surprisingly steady.
Amina had been texting almost every day. Not long messages, but consistent ones. A photo of her and Noah studying in the library. A funny story about her roommate’s failed attempt at making ramen. A simple “Thinking about the porch today. Miss it.” Each one felt like another small step forward.
Elias read the latest one out loud while we were making lunch. “She says she’s been talking to Noah about everything. He’s been really supportive. She asked if it would be okay if he came with her again some
