CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETEEN - Past Mistakes Standing In The Present

The day flew by in a blur of activity. Nia found herself swept up in the festive atmosphere, participating in events she never would have imagined herself enjoying just a few months ago. She entered the pie-eating contest on a whim, finishing dead last but laughing harder than she had in years, her face covered in cherry filling. At the pumpkin-carving station, she helped wide-eyed children bring their spooky visions to life, marveling at their creativity and unbridled enthusiasm. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the square, Nia even allowed herself to be pulled into a traditional folk dance, Will's encouraging smile and outstretched hand too tempting to resist. As she twirled and laughed, her hair coming loose from its ponytail and her cheeks flushed with exertion, Nia caught sight of Ryan watching from the sidelines. For a moment, their eyes met, and she felt a jolt of... excitement? Nervousness? Before she could analyze it further, the dance ended, and she was