UNRAVELING AMAYA.

17

The first morning in Hawaii was a dream. The ocean breeze drifted through the open windows of our beachside villa, carrying the scent of salt and freedom. Sunlight streamed in, painting my room in soft, golden hues. I stretched lazily and smiled. All of my worries were left in Georgia.

After a quick shower, I joined everyone downstairs. Cordelia was going over the itinerary for the day: brunch then beach yoga, with a hike planned for the afternoon. She was glowing with pregnancy, her outfit—sports bra and tennis skirt—showcasing her forming bump. I admired her energy but wasn't thrilled about sticking to that rigid ass schedule. You'd think a pregnant woman would want to lounge around more. But nope. Not Cordelia.

In the living room, I caught Ryan's eye and exchanged a small smile.

"Alright, everyone ready for some yoga?" Cordelia asked, her excitement palpable.

I hesitated, not wanting to disappoint her. I was feeling the need for some alone time. "Actually," I said, cutting in, "I think I'll freshen up first. Mind if I catch up with you guys later?"

Cordelia raised an eyebrow. "Sure, Amaya. We'll see you there,"

I slipped back to my room and changed into a comfortable sundress and grabbed a light backpack. As I stepped out onto the balcony, I glanced at Ryan's empty balcony, wondering if he felt the same urge for spontaneity.

Without overthinking it, I made my way down to the beach. The sand was scorching hot but the rhythmic sound of the waves soothed my thoughts as I hopped closer to the water. Moments later, I saw Ryan emerging from the villa. I shook my head as a smile tugged at his lips.

"Hey," he greeted casually, falling into step beside me.

"Hi," I replied, feeling a sense of relief to be away from the group's structured plans. "Skipping out on beach yoga too?"

Ryan chuckled softly. "Yeah, I didn't feel like that shit."

"I hear you," I said with a grin. His presence was comforting, and the morning sun felt like a warm hug on my skin, while the ocean breeze played with my hair. I needed this, so bad.

We wandered along the beach, not rushing, just enjoying the freedom to explore without an agenda. We found a quiet cove where Ryan waded into the shallows, and I followed, the cool water refreshing against my burnt feet.

"This place is so nice," I remarked, taking in the view.

Ryan nodded, his expression thoughtful. "It really is."

By midday, our stomachs led us back to shore, where Ryan suggested finding a local spot to grab some lunch. We strolled along the beach, laughter from our morning adventures still lingering between us.

We settled on a cozy seaside café tucked away beneath swaying palm trees—the scent of grilled seafood tantalizing our senses.

Over lunch, we shared plates of fresh fish tacos and swapped stories about our favorite childhood memories. The easy camaraderie between us felt effortless, as if we had known each other for years instead of mere months.

"I'm glad we did this," Ryan said sincerely, his eyes warm as they met mine across the table.

"Me too," I replied softly. I felt a sense of gratitude for this unexpected day with him.

After lunch, we walked back along the beach, the late afternoon sun casting a warm glow over everything. We found a quiet spot beneath a palm tree, its fronds providing dappled shade on the soft sand. We settled down, content to simply enjoy each other's company in comfortable silence.

Ryan turned to me. "Thank you for today, Maya. I needed this more than I realized."

I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me at his words. "I did too, Ryan. It's been... really nice."