How it Ends

Lily Harper stared at the empty apartment with a mix of relief and uncertainty. It was her first day in Denver, and the moving boxes stacked against the walls felt both like a fresh start and a reminder of the upheaval she had left behind. The sunlight filtered through the large windows, casting long shadows on the hardwood floors, but for now, the apartment felt hollow.As she unpacked, the hum of the city outside began to feel like a new kind of background noise, different from the oppressive silence she had grown accustomed to in her old life.

Lily had spent months planning this move, hoping a change of scenery would help her escape the shadows of her past.

Her phone buzzed, breaking her concentration. It was a message from Grace, her new neighbourhood. “Welcome to the neighborhood! I’m hosting a little get-together at my place tonight. It would be great to see you there!”

Lily hesitated. Social events were not her forte, especially not when she was still finding her footing in a new city. But something about Grace’s friendly invitation made her feel a glimmer of hope. Maybe it was time to step out of her comfort zone.

She glanced at the time and decided to take a break from unpacking. After a quick shower and a change into a casual yet presentable outfit, she headed out, determined to make a positive start.

The evening air was crisp, carrying the scent of city life—a mix of coffee, car exhaust, and blooming flowers. As she approached Grace’s apartment building, Lily took a deep breath and tried to shake off her nerves.

Grace’s apartment was on the fourth floor, and as Lily walked up the stairs, she could hear the faint murmur of voices and the clink of glasses. The door to Grace’s apartment was slightly ajar, and as Lily stepped inside, she was greeted by the warm glow of string lights and the inviting aroma of home-cooked food.

“Lily! You made it!” Grace’s voice was cheerful as she came over to greet her. “I’m so glad you could come.”