Starfish summer

1

I stepped out of the private jet as the hot air hit me. I took a deep breath and went down the stairs. I was walking to the car when someone yelled, "Ana, you forgot your jacket!"

I turned around and saw my mother getting out of the plane holding my jacket. "Oh thanks mom, can you give it back later?" I called back, waving to her as I continued towards the car.

My little sister, Sofia, was already sitting in the back, so I joined her, waiting for my parents to enter the limo. I took my phone out seeing many unread messages. Some were from my friends and some from the family group chat.
My cousins were asking where we were because it was already late.

My parents got in the car and the car started moving. My father asked with a radiant face, "Girls, are you ready for this family holiday?"

I sighed and replied, "Yes although three months in Bodrum is way too long."

My little sister was so excited because she was about to spend the holidays with our cousins, including Tiago, on whom she had a huge crush since forever, even though he was sixteen and she was nine. My mother looked at my sister's excitement and noted, "You know Ana, some people can't even afford travelling. Be grateful like your sister."

I didn't reply and let that sink in. She was right; after all, i'm spending the holidays with my cousins, which will be fun. But again, three months? I'm literally moving to Turkey at this point.

I could already picture the endless days of blistering heat, awkward family dinners, and the lack of privacy that comes with sharing a villa with my cousins and my sister. Sure, it was only the cousins and the resort was luxurious, but how many times could you swim in the pools or lounge on the same beaches before it got boring?

My friends back home, in Portugal, would be hanging out together, without me, making memories I wouldn't be apart of. Plus, how was I supposed to keep up with everything going on in their lives from thousands of miles away?

I glanced at Sofia, her eyes sparkling with excitement, and couldn't help but feel a bit guilty for my negativity. Maybe, just maybe i could find a way to enjoy this trip too. But it was going to be a challenge, especially with my parents expecting me to be on my best behavior the whole time.

I felt my phone vibrate. Unlocking it, I saw many videos sent to the friends' group chat and many messages saying, "We are so sad you're not with us Ana. We miss you!" The videos showed an afternoon at Leo's beach house : everyone playing volleyball, having a huge barbecue party and having so much fun. I sighed and turned off my phone, glancing out the window to see that we had already arrived.

Stepping out of the limo, I took in the sight of the grand hotel entrance. It was adorned with marble columns and fountains, a stark contrast to the lively scenes from my friend's gathering. My parents were busy with check-in, so I decided to explore a bit with my sister. I strolled through the spacious lobby, soaking in the elegance of the surroundings.

I walked to the balcony overlooking the resort when I heard someone calling me, "Ana Costa !" I turned around to see my cousins, Daniela and Tiago, waving excitedly. Maria, with her long wavy brown hair and infectious smile, and Tiago, tall, brunette and athletic figure greeted me warmly. I laughed and jumped into their arms.

"We missed you so much Ana !" Daniela exclaimed.

"I missed you more," Replied Sofia, grinning mischievously. I couldn't help but laugh at Sofia's playful retort.