In the Eye of the Storm

The suffocating humidity of Oklahoma pressed in on Lydia Owens the moment she stepped off the plane. It had been years, but the air still held the familiar scent of dry earth and distant rain. Her stomach churned, a knot of anxiety tightening with every step towards the exit. Ben, her British colleague, seemed oblivious, already caught up in the novelty of the airport.

Then came the news – her luggage, containing everything she needed, was accidentally sent to Paris. A wave of frustration washed over her, quickly followed by a strange, almost tempting thought: maybe this was a sign to just turn around and go back to the safe, predictable life in London. But it was too late.

Outside, the sun beat down relentlessly. And there, in the parking lot, was the familiar, battered red truck. And behind the wheel, unmistakably, was Tyler. Seeing him after so long, the years of silence and hurt stretched between them like an invisible, tangible barrier. The reunion was awkward, laced with sarcastic jabs that barely masked the raw emotion simmering beneath the surface. The past wasn't just catching up; it was here, waiting.