*Aliana’s POV*

The moment we stepped out of the storefront, I felt lighter, as if the weight of uncertainty had finally lifted. This was it. The place where my dream would take root.

The owner, an older gentleman named Mr. Laurent, was a kind man with a warm smile. His gray hair was neatly combed back, and his blue eyes held a wisdom that reminded me of my grandfather. He had been running the small shop for years, but now he was ready to retire and let someone else bring life to the space.

“We’ll be back tomorrow to fill out the rental forms and make the payment,” Freddy assured...