Broken Compass

<p>When you're a bartender in a small town you hear a lot of stories-tales of love heartbreak and everything in between. But lately it feels like the world is moving on while I'm stuck polishing glasses and avoiding the question of what happens next. I didn't expect Mabel to walk into my bar one evening full of life and dreams her laughter cutting through my routine like sunlight through clouds. She's the kind of person who makes you want to chase the impossible even if it terrifies you. Her stories are vibrant her energy infectious but behind that bright smile there's something more-something that speaks to the part of me I've kept buried for too long. We both have our ghosts but maybe together we can face them. Or at least we can make each other laugh while trying. But here's the thing: it's easy to pour a drink; it's a lot harder to pour your heart out. And when Mabel asks if I'm ready to take a leap of faith I'm left wondering-am I brave enough to dive into the mess of life and love again?</p>