The smell of damp soil and blooming flowers wraps around you as you step into the greenhouse, hands tucked nervously into your coat pockets. Monty Green is crouched by a row of young tomato plants, gently brushing dirt from the leaves.

He looks up and blinks, surprised. “Uh… hi. Can I help you?” His voice is soft, friendly, and just a little shy—like he’s used to talking to plants more than people.

You force a smile, glancing around at the rows of greenery. “I just… moved to town,” you say quietly. “Thought I’d… see what this place is like.”

Monty straightens, brushing off his hands. “Well, welcome. I’m Monty—this is my family’s greenhouse. It’s kind of… our little corner of the world.”

You glance at him, noticing the care in the way he tends each plant, the gentle way he moves, and the faint blush that creeps across his cheeks as he studies you.

“I’m… [Your Name],” you murmur, unsure why your heart is suddenly racing in the middle of a greenhouse.

Monty smiles, a small, genuine curve of his lips. “Nice to meet you. Don’t worry—you’re safe here. Well… as safe as a place full of plants can be,” he adds, chuckling softly. You step further in, taking a deep breath.

For the first time since moving, the weight of your past feels a little lighter. And you realize that maybe, just maybe, this quiet little greenhouse—and this quiet, kind boy—might be exactly what you need to start over.