𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬

05

I wake up in an unfamiliar bed, the soft light of dawn filtering through the window and casting a golden hue over the room. Surfboards lean casually against the wall, and an open suitcase with clothes spilling out hints at a life lived by the sea. I glance over to see Teddy still asleep beside me, his chest rising and falling rhythmically. Memories of last night flood back—his lips on my skin, the warmth of his touch, the way he made me feel alive.

Careful not to wake him, I slip out from under the covers, the cool morning air sending a shiver down my spine. I quickly gather my clothes and start putting them on, my movements slow and deliberate to avoid making any noise. I pause for a moment to take in Teddy's peaceful expression. His hazel eyes are closed, a faint smile playing on his lips as if he's dreaming of something wonderful.

Once dressed, I step outside, the path back to my beach house crunching softly under my feet. The sound of waves crashing against the shore is a comforting backdrop. As I walk in, the house is a flurry of activity—everyone is packing, the air thick with the scent of sunscreen and the salty sea breeze.

"She's back!" Dixi calls out, her voice cutting through the chaos. Relief and urgency mix in her eyes. "Hurry, we need to pack up. We're leaving today."

The urgency in Dixi's voice adds a layer of tension to the air. My heart quickens as I rush to gather my things, the reality of our departure sinking in. The room buzzes with a mix of excitement and anxiety, a bittersweet farewell to this place we've called home. The sea breeze drifts through the open windows, blending with the hurried sounds of packing.

Kimberly is meticulously folding her clothes, her brow furrowed in concentration. Dixi is wrestling with an oversized beach towel, trying to fit it into her already full suitcase. Summer darts around, double-checking that she hasn't forgotten anything, her movements quick and efficient.

This moment, charged with anticipation and the promise of new adventures, is one I'll never forget. The chaos, the emotions, the people—all of it forms a beautiful, chaotic symphony of life. The beach house, with its white shutters and cozy navy blue couches, the lingering scent of flowers, is a place of countless memories. Leaving it behind feels like closing a beloved chapter in a book.

I run upstairs and change out of my dirty clothes, opting for a comfy outfit for the road trip ahead. I reach for my phone on the white-washed nightstand, noticing the barrage of texts from my mom, dad, and sister. I haven't been on my phone all weekend. Wanting to call my mom, I click on the call button and my mom picks up instantly.

"Hey honey, I was starting to think you forgot about us while you were in paradise," my mom says, chuckling over the phone.

I sigh while folding some more clothes before neatly placing them in my suitcase. "I missed you, Mom. We'll be home today."

I can already hear her joy. "Good, I got some chores for you."

I groan while zipping up my suitcase. "Mom," I say, dragging her name out.