Chapter 1 Author's Note

First of all, thank you for clicking on this story, it honestly means more than you know. There are so many books out there, and the fact that you chose to stop here, even for a moment, means a lot.

I'm still learning my way around Mobo Reader I'm figuring out how the app works, how readers interact, and how to keep up with updates. So, if you're reading this early on, you're part of the beginning of my journey here. You're helping me build something from the ground up.

I'll be releasing chapters in small batches - sometimes two a day if I can but I don't want to rush it. I'd rather give you something complete and worth reading than something that feels half done. I'm balancing real life and writing, so please bear with me.

If you enjoy what you read, leaving a short comment, a vote, or even a simple emoji really helps. It keeps the story visible to others and reminds me that people are actually following along. Every small interaction counts more than you think.

Right now, I'm focused on consistency. I want to keep the flow steady and make sure you don't have to wait too long for the next update. I'm also working on keeping the chapters clean, improving my pacing, and staying true to the characters. Writing online is a learning process, and I'm taking it one chapter at a time.

I know every author says this, but I really mean it:your support matters.When you leave a comment, I see it.When you vote, it helps more than you realize.Those small moments of encouragement make me want to keep writing, even on the days when it's hard.

This story might not be perfect, but it's honest. Every chapter is written with effort and thought. Some parts may move fast, others a bit slower but that's how stories breathe. I hope, somewhere in between, you find something that sticks with you.

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PREFACE

Before you start, I want to say this clearly:

This is a work of fiction.

Everything you'll read - the names, places, businesses, and events comes from imagination. Some details may feel familiar, but they're not taken from real life. Any resemblance to real people, living or dead, or to actual events, is purely coincidental.This story is meant for entertainment. It's not based on anyone's personal life or experiences.

I decided to include this note because I know how easily people connect fiction to reality, and I'd rather say it upfront. The goal here is just to tell a story. Nothing more, nothing less.

Thank you again for giving this a chance. Whether you read one chapter or stay till the end, I appreciate you being here. I'm learning, improving, and building this story in real time, and having even one reader who sticks around makes it worth it.

So, welcome.

Enjoy the story, take your time with it, and feel free to share your thoughts as you read along.

- RINA BALDWIN