Patterns of Affection

You know what's funny? I always thought my life would be this perfect, well-organized spreadsheet—neat columns, tidy rows, everything in its place. But then Alex happened. With his easy charm and that infuriating grin, he managed to knock my world off its axis. Suddenly, I'm not just juggling live-stream fashion critiques and my dream job opportunities—I'm also grappling with family drama, unexpected secrets, and the magnetic pull of someone I promised myself I'd never fall for. Between choosing my sister's wedding over a career-changing event and figuring out why Alex's eyes seem to hold a thousand untold stories, I'm starting to realize that maybe the best things in life don't fit neatly into boxes. So, what happens when you're caught between ambition and family, friendship and something more? Well, stick around—because I'm about to find out.