I never expected to run into my high school teacher, Mr. Harper, at a farmers’

market years later. Back in school, he was the “cool” teacher—fun, energetic,

and always encouraging. He once told me I had a sharp mind and suggested

I consider law school, but I shrugged it off. Eight years later, I was

back in my hometown when I bumped into him. Only now, he was Leo, no longer Mr. Harper. We caught up,

sharing stories of our lives. I mentioned my dream of opening a business,

and he encouraged me to pursue it. Our friendship blossomed, and over time,

I realized the age gap didn’t matter. One evening, after several dates,

Leo leaned in and hinted at having “ulterior motives.” Our connection grew,

and a year later, we got married in a small ceremony at my parents’ house.

That night,Leo gave me a worn leather notebook—my old dream journal from high school.

He’d kept it all these years, reminding me of my potential. His belief in

me sparked something I’d forgotten—my own dreams. With his support,

I left my unfulfilling job and opened a bookstore café. It became a

beloved community spot, and as I watched Leo with our child, I realized I had married the right teacher.