Sea Glass (WAYHAUGHT)

Soul Searching

Waverly focused on the frothy blanket covering the sea. It was that time of year, when the water seemed most alive, when it spoke to her most, as though Willa was seeking an audience. She selected a few pebbles, flat enough to skim across the surface, a wake-up call for her sister. The first disappeared into the foam, her second attempt more successful, the pebble bouncing three times before plopping under a wave.

"It's me," she began. "I don't think it's going to work with Nicole."

"Wisshhhh," came the reply. "Wisshhh."

"I tried that. I'm scared, okay. I'm scared to be me. I want this so badly...it's just." She inhaled the salty air, letting it soothe her soul. "I know, I need to trust myself."

"Wisshhh. Wisshhh."

"I wish. I wish...I just wish I can be me, no matter what people say. Without hiding anymore. It sounds easy saying it. Just be me, be yourself, but I've lived this lie for so long I don't know if I'll ever be able to not live it."

She readied her hand to skim the last pebble. Its launch was perfectly timed, dancing over the waves before sinking out of sight. Her success with a single stone lifted her mood, enough for her to realise this wasn't where she wanted to be.

"Will, I don't think this is about Nicole anymore. I think this is about me not being honest enough. Okay, good talk. Thanks for that. Actually, you know, I wish I'd kept the photos now. Lesson learnt I guess."

Laughter had her turn to see who was invading her beach. "Just typical. He knows this is my special place."

With nowhere to hide, all she could do was watch as Champ and Chrissy strolled towards her, hand in hand, looking very pleased with themselves.

"Hey, didn't expect to see you here," he said.

"Same," she replied. "Best be going."

"How's the restaurant?" Chrissy enquired, a smile on her face. "Nicole's an amazing cook."

"Chef," Waverly corrected.

Chrissy mouthed the word. "Alex and Sophie can't wait for their wedding reception."

Waverly feigned a smile.

"It's why they chose Nic."

"I'm late," Waverly replied. She went to walk away.

"We really need you Waves," Champ said, letting go of Chrissy's hand. "Band's not the same without you. Isn't that right Chris?"

"Completely. I haven't got nearly a good voice as yours. Can't hit the high notes."

"Please Waves. It would mean a lot."

"I'll think about it."

She didn't want to think about it, having already made up her mind. Although, Chrissy admitting she couldn't sing gave her a sense of satisfaction, as did Champ begging her in front of his girlfriend.

"I mentioned the band to Alex and Sophie," Chrissy added. "Champ's shown them a few videos, and they were wondering if you'd play at their wedding."

"As I said, I'll think about it."

Chrissy took a step back, a look on her face hinting at embarrassment. "Look, I'm sorry. I should have asked you before I said anything to Alex. I know how you feel about them."

Waverly stared at her once friend, trying to process what she was saying.

"I just thought, with you working for Nicole and Shae, you were okay with it."