Page 1 of Manic

PROLOGUE

Meghan

Two Weeks Ago…

The sweet scent of jasmine drifts on the warm Atlanta breeze as I stride down Peachtree Street, my heels clicking a steady rhythm on the sun-baked sidewalk.

It's late afternoon, and the city thrums with energy around me—car horns blaring, people chattering as they hurry past.

I absently fiddle with the small silver cross hanging at my throat, a nervous habit I can't seem to shake even after all these years.

"Hey sugar, looking good!" a guy calls out as he passes.

I roll my eyes but can't help the small smirk that tugs at my lips. After fifteen years of running Beans & Babes, I'm used to the attention.

I glance down at my outfit—skin-tight jeans and a low-cut tank that shows off my curves.

Professional, but with just enough sex appeal to fit the Beans & Babes brand.

It's a delicate balance, one I've perfected over the years since taking over the once-sleepy coffee shop.

As I near Bloom's Florist, my mind drifts to the mountain of tasks waiting for me back at the shop.

There's the new espresso machine to set up, next week's schedule to finalize, not to mention...

"Shit," I mutter, fishing my phone out of my purse.

I'd meant to text Jessa about covering Alicia's shift tomorrow.

My fingers fly across the screen as I type out a quick message.

The bell above the florist's door chimes as I step inside, a wave of cool air-conditioned air washing over me.

The shop is a riot of color and fragrance—vibrant bouquets and lush greenery everywhere I look.

"Afternoon, Ms. Whittaker!" calls a cheery voice. I look up to see Mabel, the elderly shop owner, smiling at me from behind the counter.

Her snow-white hair is piled atop her head in its usual messy bun, and reading glasses perched on the end of her nose.

"Hey Mabel," I reply, returning her warm smile. "How are you doing today?"

"Oh, can't complain, can't complain," she says with a wave of her hand. "Though these old bones aren't what they used to be. Now, what can I get for you today, dear? The usual?"

I nod, moving to lean against the counter. "You got it. Six mixed bouquets, heavy on the pinks and purples if you've got 'em."

As Mabel bustles about gathering flowers, I let my gaze wander around the shop.

It's soothing here, a little oasis of calm in the bustling city.

Sometimes I wonder what my life would be like if I'd chosen a different path.

Maybe I'd own a quiet little flower shop like this instead of...

I shake my head, banishing the thought.

No use dwelling on what-ifs.

I made my choices, for better or worse.

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