Story Summary:

Lillian Carter never imagined that taking up a small-town baking job would change her life so drastically. Leaving behind her high-paced corporate job in the city, she moves to the quiet town of Darling to start fresh. Bas, a wealthy widower and single father to seven-year-old twins, Emma and Ethan, is immediately intrigued when Lillian takes up residence in the quaint cottage next to his sprawling estate. Overwhelmed by the demands of his business and parenthood, Bas finds himself in desperate need of a nanny. Upon learning about Bas's plight, Lillian volunteers to help with the twins temporarily. Her empathy and creativity become a beacon of new light in their lives. As Lillian starts to bake her way into the hearts of the townspeople and the twins, she sees the walls Bas had built around his heart begin to crumble. Despite their different worlds, their shared love for Emma and Ethan helps bridge the gap. As Darling slowly works its charm on Lillian, her initial intent to stay for just a few months wavers. One crisp autumn evening, while making cookies with the twins, she realizes that perhaps this small town and its inhabitants have a more permanent place in her heart. Bas, seeing the joy Lillian brings to his kids and himself, struggles with his feelings. He fears the pain of loss again but cannot resist the pull of Lillian's warmth and strength. During the town's annual fair, as Lillian wins first prize in the baking contest, Bas gathers the courage to open his heart fully. He proposes, presenting Lillian not just with a ring, but an apron embroidered with the words "Welcome Home." With Emma and Ethan joyfully joining in the embrace, Lillian accepts, understanding that sometimes, love finds us in the most unexpected places and transforms us entirely.

Characters:

Lillian Carter (FMC) Early 30’s with soft, wavy blond hair, warm brown eyes, and a welcoming smile that reflects her gentle nature. She dresses in a casual yet stylish manner, often seen in aprons dusted with flour from her latest baking creation. She is a former corporate worker who leaves behind a high-paced city life to find peace in the small town of Darling. Empathetic, creative, nurturing, and determined. Lillian is warm and approachable, quickly endearing herself to the townspeople and Bas's family. She has a natural ability to connect with children and is deeply compassionate, always ready to help those in need. Though she is initially uncertain about her new life, Lillian’s adaptability and openness lead her to embrace the charm of Darling. Her baking skills and artistic touch bring joy to others, and she finds solace in the simplicity of small-town life. Lillian transitions from a life defined by ambition and stress to one rooted in love, family, and community. She finds herself and her true passions in Darling, leading her to embrace a future she never expected.

Sebastian “Bas” Montgomery (MMC): Mid-to-late 30s, tall, with a strong, athletic build. Bas has dark hair graying at the temples, sharp green eyes, and a rugged handsomeness that is softened when he is with his children. He typically dresses in tailored suits for work but adopts a more relaxed style at home. A wealthy widower and successful businessman, Bas is struggling to balance his demanding career with the responsibilities of raising his twin children after the loss of his wife. He is dedicated to his children but finds himself overwhelmed by the demands of single parenthood. Bas is initially reserved, guarded, and somewhat aloof, a man who keeps his emotions tightly controlled due to past pain. However, beneath his stoic exterior lies a deep well of love and devotion, particularly for his children. He is thoughtful, intelligent, and capable, but his fear of loss makes him hesitant to open up to others. As he gets to know Lillian, Bas begins to lower his defenses and allows himself to feel again. Bas’s journey is one of healing and rediscovering love. He learns to trust again and allows himself to be vulnerable with Lillian, ultimately embracing a future filled with hope and happiness.

Emma and Ethan Montgomery: 7 years old twin children of Bas, Emma and Ethan who are still coping with the loss of their mother, which has left them somewhat withdrawn and shy. They crave attention and affection, which they find increasingly in Lillian. Both Emma and Ethan have their father’s dark hair and eyes, with Emma’s hair typically styled in braids or a ponytail, while Ethan sports a more tousled look. They often dress in matching or complementary outfits that reflect their close bond as twins.

Tropes:

Small Town Romance
Opposites Attract
Next Door Neighbor
Single Dad
Billionaire
Nanny
Smart / Sassy

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