Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

The night market was just a quick fifteen-minute walk from the University of Maple Grove. Cynthia and her mystery boyfriend often went there and always raved about how perfect it was for couples.

Friday.

At exactly 5 pm, Flora wrapped up her work at the lab and headed for the university's main gate. As soon as she stepped outside, she spotted Connor waiting by the roadside.

He was rocking a beige trench coat, looking tall and elegant. The sun was still hanging in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow behind him that made him appear almost regal. His hands were tucked into his pockets, and he was gazing at the university entrance with a soft, patient expression.

The moment Flora saw Connor, he saw her too. She noticed a slight smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

He was smiling.

With a grin, she ran toward him, arms wide open, and jumped into his embrace. "Connor!"

Connor caught her and hugged her tightly. "Take it easy."

nuzzling her face against his chest, wrinkling his crisp, white shirt. Connor's smile widened as he

its best after dark and they had some time to kill, they decided to

was huge and surprisingly well-organized, with no hint of the usual chaos and mess. Students from

market was buzzing with

himself getting caught up in the festive atmosphere,

a couple was bickering

How can you miss every time?" the girl huffed, stomping her foot in

fault! It's just a teddy bear! I'll

stomping on his foot before

he pocketed their money, didn't seem concerned about their argument. Spotting Flora and Connor, he called out,

give it a go?" Connor asked Flora

lot of the young girls enjoying these

girls usually say no," the stall owner interrupted, sensing an opportunity. "Come on, give it a

said seriously. "If you let him play, he might just clean out your