CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO - The Next Phase

"I thought you could add charms as you hit different milestones," Lucas explained. "Your first day of classes, signing the lease on your bakery, your grand opening..." Ella felt her heart swell with love. It was more than just a piece of jewelry; it was a tangible representation of Lucas's faith in her and her dreams. As summer turned to fall, Ella's plans for Sweet Beginnings continued to progress. She had officially signed up for in-person baking classes at a culinary school in the nearby city, commuting twice a week for intensive training. Lucas, true to his word, was supportive every step of the way. He rearranged the restaurant's schedule to accommodate her classes and even surprised her by installing a professional-grade oven in their home kitchen for her to practice on. One crisp autumn evening, as they walked through the town park, leaves crunching underfoot, Ella turned to Lucas with a determined look in her eye. "I think I'm ready," she said softly. Lucas raised an eyeb