. Jay was the first to break the tension, giving her a playful nudge. "Well, if you're really that scared, we can skip it. But you know, we were kind of looking forward to seeing you scream."
Esme let out a genuine laugh this time, the tension finally easing a little. "Maybe next time," she teased back. "For now, though, how about that ice cream I promised?"
They all grinned, the mood lightening as they agreed. As they walked away from the ride, Esme glanced back one last time, her heart heavy. The past, it seemed, wasn't ready to let her go just yet.
....
As the day drew to a close and the amusement park lights faded into the distance, the group finally made their way home. The ride back was filled with the usual banter and lighthearted teasing, but Esme was noticeably quiet, her gaze lost in thought as she stared out the window.
