*Lauren*
Sinking into the warm sand, I let out a contented sigh. The sun dipped low on the horizon, shades of red and gold streaking through the sky. A day chasing after giggling toddlers should've left me exhausted, but instead, a energy pulsed through my veins.
Shelby’s words were a soft echo in my memory as I watched the waves lap gently against the shore.
And truly, the peace of the beach seemed to capture every good thing I was feeling inside. The salt-kissed breeze, the rhythmic hush of the ocean—it was all so soothing.
I pulled my knees up, wrapping my arms around them as I gazed out across the water. Today had been ... illuminating. Being with Shelby, seeing her juggle motherhood and everything life had thrown at her with grace. It reminded me of what I wanted—no, who I wanted.
Lucas. His name alone sent a shiver down my spine.
