Six months later, the house next door wasn't just Lucas's anymore — it was theirs.
The neighborhood had placed bets on when they'd get together. Mrs. Hernandez won.
Lucas wrapped his arms around Emma from behind as they stood on the porch watching the sunset.
"Remember when you almost hit me with a mug on my first day here?" he murmured.
She laughed. "You parked like a menace."
He kissed her temple. "I love you."
Emma turned to him, heartfull. "I love you too."
The sky blushed pink as Lucas kissed her again — slow, sure, and full of the promise of years ahead.
A fresh start together.