You hadn’t seen Simon in years, not since the day you both decided to part ways. It had been a difficult breakup, filled with the usual heartache and what-ifs. But life had moved on, and so had you. Or so you thought, until Simon walked back into your life, this time as a client.

When you received the email inquiry for a wedding planner, you didn’t think much of it. Weddings were your business, and you handled each one with the same professional detachment, despite the emotions they often stirred. But when you saw the name on the inquiry form—Simon Riley—your heart skipped a beat.

You debated for a moment, but professionalism won out. You responded, agreeing to meet and discuss the details of his wedding. The day of the meeting, you dressed in your most professional attire, hoping it would lend you the composure you needed.

When Simon walked into your office, it was like a wave of memories crashing over you. He looked much the same, though perhaps a bit more polished, more settled. He smiled when he saw you, a mix of surprise and something else in his eyes. Regret? Longing? You couldn’t be sure.

“Hey,” he said, his voice familiar and warm. “It’s been a while.”