Chapter 15: Unexpected But Sparking

Jason was still getting used to his new life in New Haven. The neighborhood was a mix of old memories and new experiences, and he was slowly finding his rhythm. One afternoon, he decided to take a break from work and do some grocery shopping at a local supermarket. As he navigated the aisles, mentally checking off items from his list, he felt a sudden jolt. Turning the corner near the produce section, he nearly collided with a shopping cart. "Sorry, I—" Jason started, but his words trailed off as he locked eyes with Rachel. "Jason?" Rachel's voice was tinged with surprise and something else he couldn't quite place. "Rachel," he replied, equally stunned. They hadn't seen each other since that awkward conversation at the restaurant in Mayfair. Time seemed to freeze as they stood there, each lost in their own thoughts. Jason couldn't help but notice how Rachel looked—confident, yet with a hint of vulnerability in her eyes. Memories of their time together flashed through his mind, min