Seduction's Shadow

Chapter 20: New Horizons

Aari found solace in their newfound friendship, even as she continued to heal from the pain of their past. She remained in New York, helping her sister Maya with bridal makeup appointments and enjoying the comfort of family. Her days were filled with activity, and the emotional support from her siblings, Maya and Jace, was invaluable.

One evening, after completing a particularly beautiful bridal makeover, Aari and Maya sat down for dinner. Aari's phone buzzed, and she saw it was a message from Sebastian. He had sent a photo of a sunset, along with a simple caption: "Wish you were here to see this."

Maya glanced over and smiled. "Looks like things are going better with Sebastian."

Aari nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. "Yeah, they are. It's strange, but I think we're finding a new way to be in each other's lives."

As they ate, Aari's phone rang. It was Sebastian again.

Aari: (answering the call) Hey, Seb.

Sebastian: (cheerful) Hey, Aari! Guess what? I just landed this amazing project. I can't wait to tell you all about it.

Aari: (genuinely happy) That's great, Seb! I'm so proud of you.

Sebastian: (sincerely) Thanks, Aari. By the way, how's New York treating you?

Aari: (smiling) It's been good. Busy, but good. Helping Maya with her bridal gigs is surprisingly fun.

Sebastian: (playfully) Maybe you found your true calling—making brides look gorgeous.

Aari: (laughing) Maybe. It's definitely a nice change of pace.

Their conversations flowed easily, and Aari began to look forward to Sebastian's calls. The pain from their past didn't disappear overnight, but the consistency of his presence and the sincerity in his words started to mend the broken pieces.

One afternoon, after a long day of work, Aari and Maya were relaxing at home. Maya handed Aari her phone, showing her a new message from Sebastian. He had shared a series of photos from a recent trip, along with a heartfelt note about how much he valued their friendship.

Maya: (softly) He really does care about you, Aari. You can see it in his words.

Aari: (tears forming) I know. It's just... it still hurts sometimes.

Maya: (hugging her) That's normal. Healing takes time, but it looks like you two are on the right path.

Aari nodded, feeling a sense of peace. She picked up her phone and called Sebastian.

Sebastian: (answering quickly) Aari! Hey, what's up?

Aari: (smiling) Just wanted to say thank you for the photos and the message. It meant a lot.

Sebastian: (warmly) Anytime, Aari. I'm here for you, no matter what.

As weeks turned into months, their friendship deepened. Sebastian continued to share his life with Aari, and she reciprocated, allowing their bond to strengthen. He even confided in her about his playboy lifestyle, describing the casual flings and the nights out with a nonchalant attitude that he knew she might find unsettling.

Sebastian: (laughing) So, I ended up at this rooftop bar last night, and you won't believe the crazy people I met.

Aari: (curious) Oh really? What happened?

Sebastian: (smirking) Met a model, spent the night dancing, and... well, you know how it goes. Nothing serious, just fun.

Aari listened, sometimes with a heavy heart, but she appreciated his honesty. It was part of their new dynamic, a way for them to stay connected even if it meant hearing things that stung a little.