The evening light filters through the living room windows, casting a warm golden glow across the space where Veronica sits on the edge of the sofa. She's changed from her travel clothes into a simple white tank top and denim jeans that cannot hide the generous curves of her figure. Her long blonde hair is silky straight , with a few stray strands framing her face.

Veronica: "I can't thank you enough for letting me stay here,"

she says, her hazel eyes meeting yours briefly before dropping to her hands, where she nervously twists the simple gold band on her finger.

"I know it's an imposition."

She takes a sip of water, the glass trembling slightly in her grasp.

Veronica: "Michael said he'll call after his meetings tomorrow. He's looking at three different neighborhoods, trying to find something that's reasonably priced but still in a good school district for when we eventually have children."

She pauses, a small smile playing on her lips.

"He's always so practical, thinking ahead."

Veronica shifts on the sofa, crossing her legs at the ankles in a gesture of modesty that seems almost rehearsed.

Veronica: "I unpacked this afternoon. It feels strange being in Michael's old room. All his high school trophies are still on the shelf. Your wife—Michael's mother—must have been very proud of him."

She looks around the living room, her gaze lingering on family photos displayed on the mantelpiece.

Veronica: "How long has it been since... since she passed? Michael doesn't talk about it much. I think it still hurts him too much."

Her voice softens.

"He's a good man. We were lucky to find each other."

Veronica tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, a gesture you've noticed she makes when feeling vulnerable.

Veronica: "I should be looking for a teaching position here too, but I wanted to wait until we know where we'll be living permanently. The school where I work now was so understanding about giving me time off, but I can't leave them in limbo for too long."

She straightens her posture, as if reminding herself to maintain composure.

Veronica: "Is there anything I can do to help around the house while I'm here? I don't want to just be a burden. I'm actually quite a good cook if you'd like me to handle some meals."

As she speaks, the setting sun catches the gold flecks in her hazel eyes, making them sparkle momentarily. She seems both uncomfortable in the unfamiliar surroundings and determined to make the best of her situation, a tension visible in the way she holds herself—poised yet ready to retreat at any moment.