Page 23 of Tyler

She nodded again, blinking back a tear. “I am, and I feel guilty about that too. Stupid, right?”

Stef patted her hand. “No, I think it’s very healthy. And I also think something else is bothering you about Ty.”

The woman rose to her feet and leaned back against her desk while regarding her closely. Was she a mind reader too?

Piper stood too and walked over to a photo of a fluffy orange cat. It was beautiful, and she was stalling. She turnedaround and blew out a breath, knowing her friend wouldn’t let her leave until she was honest with herself.

“I don’t want to be his rebound,” she blurted.

Stef’s chin raised. “I can see why that would worry you. Have you talked to Ty about her?”

“Yes.” She scratched her temple. “I told him he deserved better, and he said he was glad that she’d left him because then he wouldn’t have met me.”

And just like that, a rush of warmth chased away the chill that had settled.

“Wow, how sweet.” Stef smiled.

“He’s amazingly sweet.” Now Piper was smiling too.

“Look.” Her friend walked over to set a hand on her shoulder. “I understand your hesitation, but don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back. Life is all about taking chances, and who knows, this could be something beautiful. You felt a spark, right? That doesn't happen every day. Maybe it's worth exploring, even if it's a bit complicated."

Piper glanced down at her hiking boots, contemplating Stef’s words. The idea of pursuing something more with Ty despite the uncertainties started to feel less frightening. She shifted her gaze back to Stef’s. “I guess you're right. It's just… what if it doesn't work out, and things get awkward between us? I don't want to risk a budding friendship.”

Her friend nodded with an understanding gaze. “That’s valid. But what if it does work out? What if it turns into something amazing? I was in your shoes once, and had to take a chance, and God, I’m so glad I did, because I’m married to my soulmate, and we have a beautiful child. Trust me, it’s worth any chance you take.”

She definitely wanted what Stef and Mac had. Who knows? Maybe it was in the cards for her with Ty. But there were a lot of variables for them.

A mixture of apprehension and hope swirled in her chest. “You make it sound so simple, but emotions are complicated.”

Stef snorted. “They are, indeed. But isn't that what makes life interesting? Take your time, talk to him, and see how he feels. If you both want the same thing, great. If not, at least you won't wonderwhat ifdown the road.”

Her words brought a sense of comfort. Piper nodded. “You should add ‘giving advice’ to my bill. It’s well worth it,” she said, hugging her friend. “Thank you.”

“No problem,” Stef replied as they drew back. “I’m happy to help. Lord knows I needed it when I was first navigating unknown waters with Mac.”

“I’d love to hear it,” she said, glancing at the clock on the wall. “But I’m supposed to meet Brandi at the gallery in fifteen minutes.”

“You mean, The Artery,” Stef corrected with a grin.

She laughed. “Right. The Artery.”

Eleven minutes later, she was still smiling as she parked in front of her dream building that stood as a timeless testament to architectural elegance.

Its exterior was a blend of historic charm and refined detailing, and it exuded an aura of sophistication that transported onlookers to a bygone era. Exactly what she’d pictured in her head for years.

The intricate masonry work showcased the craftsmanship of an era that valued meticulous attention to detail. The building was an art piece itself. Warm, earthy hues accentuated the building’s stately presence. Piper loved the large, evenly spaced windows. They allowed natural light to spill into the building's interior, and she could already imagine the interior lighting casting a warm glow on the surrounding sidewalks at night.

Her favorite part of the exterior was the entrance marked by a gracefully arched doorway. Each time she stepped through it felt like a portal to a different time.

It was a grand wooden door, embellished with brass accents and intricate carvings, which needed restoration. Brandi reassured her it could be done. Piper was thrilled because to her, it was by far the best part of the building. It hinted at the opulence that awaited within. Too bad the inside had been stripped of such things over the decades. At least the decorative transom window above the entrance remained, and added a touch of vintage charm, allowing a glimpse of the building's historic allure.

“Thought I’d find you out here,” Brandi said, opening the door.

Piper had already given the designer a key so she and the construction crew would have complete access until the job was done.

She smiled. “Yep. I’m just envisioning this brought back to its glory.”

Brandi nodded. “Yes, the sea air wreaked some havoc, but my guy works wonders.”

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