The Autumn Tea That Lasted a Lifetime, Why a Woman”

Not because I loved him.

But because for the first time in years, someone looked at me as though I still mattered.

James chose a small Italian restaurant near the river.

He spoke quietly, carefully, like every word had been weighed beforehand.

“I know I’m not exactly…” He gestured awkwardly toward his injured leg. “Most women’s first choice.”