Chapter 19: "The Unexpected Guest"

The Seattle skyline glittered outside the window of Taylor and Alex's apartment as they settled into their Friday afternoon routine. Taylor was hunched over her laptop, putting the finishing touches on a freelance article, while Alex's muffled voice drifted from his makeshift office as he conducted a video call with a client. Their lives had found a comfortable rhythm, balancing work, exploration of their new city, and the continued growth of their relationship. The tranquility of their afternoon was suddenly interrupted by the vibration of Taylor's phone. She glanced at the screen, a smile spreading across her face as she saw a message from her younger brother, Matt. "Hey, sis! Guess what? I'm in Seattle for the weekend! Can I crash with you guys?" Taylor's heart raced with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. She loved her brother dearly, but his visits were often whirlwinds of spontaneity and chaos. Her fingers hovered over the keyboard for a moment before she typed out a re