All Too Well [H.S]

Fifteen

Lilah Green

Los Cabos, Mexico

8:31 AM

December 3rd, 2024

The morning sun kissed the shores of Los Cabos, casting a golden hue over the serene beach. I woke up to the sound of waves crashing against the shoreline, a soothing melody that contrasted with the tumultuous emotions that had gripped me the previous night.

As I descended the stairs of the lavish beachfront villa, I couldn't help but notice Marianne in the kitchen. She was standing in front of the mirror, her neon orange bikini clinging to her sun-kissed skin, accentuating her figure. Her laughter filled the room as she expertly tried different angles, and I couldn't help but chuckle.

"What's so amusing?" I asked, joining her by the kitchen island, my curiosity piqued.

Marianne grinned at me through the mirror, her playful demeanor shining through. "Just having a little fun taking pictures. By the way, Niall wants to take me jet skiing this morning, and we have that exotic alcohol tasting later. What did you plan on doing today? Want to come?"

I leaned against the counter, contemplating whether to divulge my rendezvous with Harry. "I'm okay, thanks. And oh, you know, I might go exploring or relax by the pool. Nothing too exciting."

Marianne raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. She turned to face me, the vibrant color of her bikini contrasting with her sparkling blue eyes. "Exploring or relaxing, huh? Are you sure that's all? Because, honestly, I thought I heard voices in the kitchen last night."

My heart raced as I realized she wasn't talking about my room but the very place we were standing. I had to think quickly. "Oh, that must have been the TV. I must've fallen asleep with it on."

Marianne studied my expression, her curiosity still evident. "The TV, huh? It sounded like quite a conversation. Are you sure you're not keeping any secrets?"

I offered a reassuring smile, hoping to dispel any doubts. "Secrets? You know me better than that. Just a restless night, that's all."

Marianne seemed to accept my explanation, though a hint of intrigue remained in her gaze. She replied with a skeptical, "Okay."

With a forced smile, I retreated back to my room. The allure of the day ahead, combined with my unease about deceiving Marianne, made it difficult to focus. I selected a white one-piece swimsuit, its simplicity contrasting with the complex emotions coursing through me. It was perfect, I thought, allowing me to maintain a comfortable distance while still being alluring.

Harry's text arrived just as I finished getting ready.

Meet me for breakfast at the beach cabana. Afterward, we'll head to the waterfall. Can't wait!

My heart fluttered at the prospect of this new day with Harry. Gathering my composure, I headed downstairs, where I found Marianne and Niall deeply engrossed in conversation in the kitchen. Marianne's neon orange bikini looked even more stunning in the morning light, and Niall, with his signature coy and witty demeanor, gave me a once-over before flashing a cheeky grin.

"Lilah, you look absolutely beautiful today," Niall remarked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

My cheeks flushed at the compliment, and I decided to play it cool. "Thank you, Niall."

Marianne, ever perceptive and eager to uncover secrets, decided to chime in. "So, Lilah, any plans for the day? You seem quite secretive." I walk over to them, crossing my arms and looking away from the both of them shyly. "Nothing, honestly." I lie through my teeth.