expect to run into you at my grandmother's cafe." Mrs. Thompson looked between Michael and Della with a warm smile. "Oh, so you two have already met? How wonderful!" Della exp

ch, but an extra set of hands would be appreciated." As Michael hefted her small duffel bag easily, Della couldn't help feeling like her heavy burdens were also being lifted. Michael set down Della's duffel bag and looked around the flat approvingly. "This little place is great. You'll have plenty of privacy and peace up here after working in the hustle and bustle of the café." "It's more than I could have hoped for," Della said gratefully. She moved to the window, peering out at the tree-lined street below. A family strolled by, kids chasing each other and laughing. The simple domestic scene struck a bittersweet chord in Della's heart. As if sensing her wistful mood, Michael spoke up. "I didn't get a chance to ask before - what brought you to this area? Just passing through?" Della worried her lower lip, debating how much to divulge. Taking a steadying breath, she decided honesty was best. "To be honest, I...I was running away from a bad situation. My ex and I were high school sweethearts, but things went wrong. He became controlling, abusive even." She twisted the simple silver band on her finger. "I finally found the courage to leave when he chose someone else." Michael's expression turned solemn. "I'm so sorry you went through that. No one deserves to be treated that way." "Thank you." Della blinked back the sting of tears. Impulsively, Michael reached over and gave her hand a comforting squeeze. "You've had to be so brave, but you're safe now. This cafe is a haven for so many - my grandmother has an incredible way of taking in strays and making them feel at home." Della looked around the cosy flat again, feeling hope and possibility. This was her chance at a new life, a fresh beginning. With the kindness of these newfound friends at her side, she felt she could face anything. "I can't wait to start over," she said softly. Over the next few days, Della quickly settled into her new life at the cosy café. Mrs. Thompson was a patient but firm teacher, showing her the ins and outs of running the small business. "The most important thing is treating every customer like a friend