On a warm summer evening, the air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of laughter from a nearby cafe. Emily walked down the cobblestone path, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of her upcoming move to another city. She had lived in this town her whole life, but a new job opportunity awaited her, and she couldn’t pass it up.

As she strolled, lost in her thoughts, she almost didn’t notice the man sitting on a bench by the fountain. He was engrossed in a book, his dark hair falling slightly over his forehead. Something about him caught her eye, and she found herself slowing down. She had seen him around town before, always with a book in hand, but they had never spoken.

On a whim, she walked over to him. “Hi,” she said, her voice trembling slightly. “I see you here often, and I’ve always wondered what you’re reading.”

He looked up, surprised but smiling warmly. “Oh, hi. I’m reading ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho. It’s one of my favorites. I’m Matt, by the way.”

“I’m Emily,” she replied, sitting down beside him. They started talking about books, sharing their favorite authors and stories. Time seemed to fly as they discovered their mutual love for literature.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the town, Emily realized she didn’t want the conversation to end. She knew she was leaving soon, but something about this moment felt important. She took a deep breath.

“Matt, I need to tell you something,” she said, her heart pounding. “I’m moving to another city in a week. I’ve never spoken to you before, but I’ve always noticed you, and I’ve always wanted to talk to you. I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t say it right now, but I think I like you.”

Matt looked at her, his eyes wide with surprise. For a moment, he didn’t say anything, and Emily’s heart sank. But then he smiled, a slow, genuine smile that reached his eyes.

“I’m glad you did, Emily,” he said softly. “I’ve noticed you too. And I’d love to get to know you better, even if you’re moving. We can make this work, if you’re willing to try.”

They exchanged numbers, and as Emily walked away, she felt a sense of hope and excitement she hadn’t felt in a long time. Sometimes, she realized, taking a chance and speaking your heart could lead to unexpected and wonderful beginnings.