Chapter 54 - An Unexpected Connection
Ethan didn't want the day to end. Something about being around Emily felt… right. It wasn't just the easy conversation or the way she smiled when she spoke—it was the unshakable feeling that he was meant to be near her. He wasn't ready to say goodbye yet.
"Do you like the beach?" he asked suddenly, watching her as she took the last sip of her cappuccino.
Emily blinked, slightly surprised by the question, then smiled. "I love it. Why?"
"Let's take a walk," Ethan suggested, leaning forward slightly. "It's too early to call it a day."
She hesitated for a second, then nodded. "Okay. That sounds nice."
As they stepped onto the warm sand, both of them instinctively took off their shoes, carrying them in their hands as they walked along the shoreline. The gentle waves lapped at their feet, the cool water contrasting with the warmth of the late afternoon sun.
Ethan took a deep breath, inhaling the salty breeze. "This place is beautiful," he murmured, glancing at Emily. "I came here the second day I arrived in town. Something about the ocean—it makes me feel… grounded."
Emily nodded, watching the waves roll in and out. "It has that effect on people."
Ethan hesitated for a moment, then looked at her. "You know, the seminar wasn't the only reason I came here."
Emily turned to him, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "No?"
He shook his head. "The seminar was more of an excuse. The real reason I came here was because my best friend was killed in this city."
Emily's breath caught in her throat. James. She hadn't known he had died here. But she forced herself to stay calm, pretending she didn't recognize the name.
"I'm so sorry," she said softly. "That must've been really hard."
Ethan nodded, his expression darkening. "It was. His name was James. He didn't live here, and I have no idea why he came, but… someone murdered him. They made it look like an accident when his body was taken back home."
Emily swallowed the lump forming in her throat. She wanted to reach out, to comfort him, but she knew she had to be careful. Instead, she gently said, "I can't imagine how painful that must've been for you. Losing your best friend like that…"
Ethan let out a slow breath. "Yeah. I don't even know why I'm telling you all this. I guess I just feel like I can."
Emily looked up at him, her heart clenching. Because you could always tell me everything, Ethan.
Not trusting herself to say more, she simply placed a comforting hand on his arm for a brief second before pulling away. "If you ever want to talk about it more… I'll listen."
Ethan gave her a small, grateful smile. "Thanks, Emily. But I don't want to bring down the mood. How about a late lunch instead?"
She nodded, relieved by the change in conversation. "I'd love that."
They walked back up the beach and found a cozy little restaurant overlooking the ocean. The scent of grilled seafood and freshly baked bread filled the air as they settled into their seats.
The atmosphere was light as they browsed through the menu, exchanging small talk about their favorite foods. Just as they placed their orders—grilled salmon for Ethan and shrimp pasta for Emily—her phone rang.
Ethan glanced at the screen and immediately felt something shift inside him. Sweetheart. The name flashing across her phone screen made his stomach tighten. Was she in a relationship? Was there someone waiting for her?
Emily's face lit up with the most radiant smile as she answered. "Hello, sweetheart. How are you?"
Ethan felt an unexpected pang in his chest. He had no right to feel anything—Emily wasn't his. But something about the way she spoke, so soft and affectionate, made his stomach twist.
She nodded as she listened, still smiling. "That's great. I hope you're having fun. Be at your best, okay?"
Ethan glanced away, trying not to let his disappointment show. So, she has someone. It wasn't his place to ask, but he couldn't stop the thoughts running through his mind.
Emily's voice was warm as she ended the call. "Love you too."
And just like that, Ethan felt like an idiot for ever thinking there was space for him. His appetite was gone.
Emily put her phone down and looked at him. "Sorry about that. Where were we?"
Ethan forced a smile, pretending like nothing had changed. "Nowhere important," he said lightly, but his heart wasn't in it.
They continued their lunch, making small talk, but Ethan's mind was elsewhere. The ease they had shared earlier felt slightly off now.
As they left the restaurant, Emily turned to him, her expression genuine. "If you ever want to try a new restaurant or visit a place, feel free to reach out to me."
The smile returned to Ethan's face, even though doubt still lingered inside him. "I just might take you up on that."
They bid each other goodbye, and as Ethan watched Emily walk away with a smile on his face.