One

Lucy was sitting on the grass by the lake; her long legs folded beneath her. She appeared tranquil as her long brown hair moved gently in the breeze. She gazed up at the moon, her emerald eyes reflected its light, and she wore a subtle smile. After hearing a sound to her left, she turned to find her friend Emma standing nearby. The evening was warm, with a clear sky and visible stars. Lucy watched the stars quietly, as she often did, there was something magical about them. Without speaking, Emma joined Lucy on the grass and rested her head on Lucy’s shoulder; they exchanged quiet smiles.

Lucy glanced over to check on Nicola and Alex, always looking out for her friends. They lived in a quiet village that attracted tourists in the summer, but it was not as crowded as the town where Lucy had previously lived. Since moving to Thetford last year, Lucy appreciated the slower pace of life—the friendly local pub known for its whitewashed walls and dark oak beams, and the calm, welcoming atmosphere made it an ideal place to relax.

A small park was situated just behind them, where the sounds of several young men engaged in playful activity could be heard. Lucy glanced toward the commotion, discerning the outlines of three or four individuals. Turning her attention back to Emma, Lucy offered another smile, reflecting on the exceptional nature of their friendship. Emma consistently demonstrated unwavering support, readily available regardless of her own circumstances. Lucy then shifted her gaze back up to the sky, her thoughts drifting to memories of her hometown, which was located not far from the coast.

"Lucy," Emma said as she raised her head, neatly brushing her long black hair over her shoulder. "Are you alright?" Lucy turned to her friend, becoming aware that she had momentarily lost herself in thought.

“Yes, I’m fine. I suppose I was reflecting on home and became absorbed in my thoughts,” Lucy responded with a sigh. Emma glanced at her with a knowing smile, having correctly anticipated Lucy’s line of thought. She valued the depth of their understanding and took some comfort in it.

"Let’s go for a walk," Emma suggested, promptly rising to her feet and assisting Lucy. She indicated the park with a subtle nod and an unmistakable spark of enthusiasm in her eyes. Lucy quietly noted with a slight smile that Emma had also noticed the group of men and appeared interested in approaching them. Lucy brushed herself off, linked her arm through Emma’s and gestured to Nicola and Alex as they began to walk.

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James and his friends spent their Saturday evening together, seated on the swings in the park behind the local pub, engaging in conversation after sharing a drink. Richard and James were new to the village, while Henry and Robert were lifelong locals. Upon arrival, James arrived visibly injured, though he chose not to disclose the circumstances, and his buddies respectfully refrained from inquiring further. They accepted him for who he was, understanding that he would share his story as time passed if he felt comfortable doing so.

James and Richard observed a group of young women by the lake and expressed their curiosity. Henry and Robert, however, were familiar with Emma.

"Emma is the one with long black hair; she has quite a dynamic personality," Robert remarked, shifting his feet nervously. James noted Robert's visible interest in her with an amused smile. Although James was a few years older than his peers he had been readily welcomed into the group, and they had all developed a strong friendship.

"It seems you may be interested in her," James remarked, glancing toward the lake. He noticed the two women had stood up and were walking in their direction. James tapped Richard on the arm to get his attention and gestured toward the approaching individuals. Richard turned, watching as they walked closer.

Lucy became aware that they were being observed as she glanced toward the park, noticing the presence of onlookers. She then turned to Emma with a sparkle in her eye.

"It appears we have been noticed," Lucy remarked, nudging Emma gently. Emma observed the unfamiliar men, then recognized Robert standing slightly apart. With a quiet laugh, she quickened her pace.

Lucy and Emma smiled at the individuals observing them. Alex and Nicola had moved away but remained nearby. Lucy and Emma stopped in front of one of the guys giving a small shy wave. James greeted Lucy and nodded to Emma. He noticed he had approached the women while Richard stayed behind. Henry and Robert remained near the swings.

Emma greeted them, displaying her usual confidence and openness to meeting new people. She looked past James and Richard, who had caught up, towards Robert and asked what he was doing.

"Not much," James replied, still looking at Lucy. Emma acknowledged his response and then walked over to Robert, leaving Lucy with James and Richard.