Golden Horizon: The Sea's Secret

Long-Lost and Found

The sun cast a warm glow over Rivertown as Emma walked into the vibrant Surfer's Brew café. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and the salty sea air mingled in the atmosphere, creating a comforting ambiance. Today, she was meeting with her wedding planner to finalize the details for her upcoming wedding with Ashton. The excitement was palpable, but a tinge of sadness lingered as her mind drifted to her best friend, Lily, whom she hadn't seen in so long.

As Emma sat across from the planner, they went through a checklist of arrangements. They discussed the venue, decorations, and of course, the wedding party. When the planner asked about her maid of honor, Emma felt a knot tighten in her stomach. "I really want Lily to be my maid of honor," she said, a wistful smile on her face. "But I don't even know where she is. It feels impossible."

The planner nodded empathetically, noting down Emma's wishes. They continued to talk through the details, but Emma couldn't shake off the feeling of longing for her friend. As they wrapped up the meeting, Emma bid the planner goodbye, her heart heavy with nostalgia for the friendship she missed so dearly.

With a sigh, she stepped outside, feeling the gentle breeze brush against her skin. She made her way to Surfer's Brew, where she knew Ashton would be waiting for her. The café was bustling with energy, and Emma couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort as she spotted Ashton sitting at their usual table, his eyes lighting up as he caught sight of her.

"Hey there, gorgeous," he greeted, standing up to pull her into a warm embrace. Emma felt the weight of her worries begin to lift in his presence.

"Hey," she replied, her smile genuine. They settled into their seats, and Emma began sharing her thoughts about the wedding plans. "I told the planner I want Lily to be my maid of honor, but I feel like it's impossible to have her there. I just wish I knew where she was."

Ashton listened intently, his gaze fixed on her, soaking in every word.

Emma shook her head, a hint of sadness creeping into her expression. "It's been too long, Ashton. I don't even know how to reach her or if she'd come back. I just miss her so much."

Just then, a familiar voice interrupted them from behind. "I miss you too!"

Emma turned around, shock flooding her senses as she saw Lily standing there, her arms wide open. Before she could even process what was happening, Lily rushed forward and enveloped her in a tight embrace, catching Emma completely off guard.

"Lily!" Emma exclaimed, her voice cracking with emotion. Tears sprang to her eyes as she hugged her best friend back, holding on as if fearing she might disappear again. "What took you so long to show up?"

"I'm so sorry," Lily said, pulling back slightly to look Emma in the eyes. "I've missed you more than I can say. I've been away for too long, and it was hard not being here for you."

Emma wiped away a tear, overwhelmed with joy. "I can't believe you're here! How did you–?"

Ashton, who had been standing quietly, smiled knowingly. "I may have had a hand in it," he said, glancing at Lily. "I met her during my business trip to Willowbrook last month. I kept it a secret because I wanted to surprise you." And Emma notice a ring in her hand.

Emma turned back to Lily, her heart swelling with happiness. "You're married! How did this happen? When? Tell me everything!"

Lily beamed, her eyes sparkling with joy. "Ben and I got married 5 years ago," she confessed, her smile wide. "We eloped in a small beach ceremony, just the two of us. It was intimate and perfect."

Emma was taken aback, her mouth agape. "I'm so happy for you, Lily!"

They hugged again, both overwhelmed with emotion. "Thank you! I wanted you to be there as well but when I ask Ethan to find me he said you left for New York" Lily said, stepping back to catch Emma's gaze.

Emma nodded, feeling the weight of their friendship wrap around them like a comforting blanket. "You have no idea how much I've missed you"

Lily smiled softly, her eyes glistening with understanding. "I'm here now, and that's what matters. We have so much to catch up on! Let's go surfing as well. It'll be just like old times!"."

Emma's face lit up at the idea. "Yes! Let's do it! I can't wait to hit the waves with you!"

As they left Surfer's Brew, laughter and excitement filled the air, the bond between Emma and Lily reigniting like the sun breaking through the clouds. They headed toward the beach, where the ocean awaited them, ready to welcome them back into its embrace.