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❝When you can't find your path, life carves one out for you.❞
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In the coastal haven of Byron Bay, Claire Garcia and Ethan King find their lives intersecting in unexpected ways.
Claire, vibrant and resolute, is a devoted reader wit...
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The atmosphere inside La Jardin was warm and vibrant, with colorful papel picado banners strung across the ceiling, casting a festive glow over the tables below. The scent of fresh tortillas, spicy salsa, and slow-cooked meats filled the air, making my stomach growl. I glanced around the restaurant, already feeling at ease in the lively environment. Mexican music played softly in the background, the soft strumming of guitars blending with the distant clatter of dishes and cheerful conversation.
As we walked in, the hostess greeted us with a smile. "¡Bienvenidos! Table for eight?"
"Yes, please," Ethan said with a smile that could charm anyone. I caught his eye, and he raised his eyebrows playfully before following the hostess to a large round table near the window.
The group took their seats, and I found myself wedged between Ella and Sarah, with Enzo and Ethan across from me. Aiden, Connor, and Oliver sat on either side of them, the group naturally falling into an easy rhythm despite the new dynamic of having me there.
"So, Claire, you have to try their guacamole here. It's the best," Ella said excitedly, her eyes wide with enthusiasm as she handed me a menu.
"Definitely, we'll start with that," Oliver added, already scanning the menu like he knew it by heart.
As I flipped through the menu, I couldn't help but notice how everyone seemed so comfortable with each other. I felt a small pang of anxiety, wondering if I would ever fit in with them, but Ella's contagious energy and Sarah's laid-back vibe had already started making me feel like part of the group.
"So, Claire," Aiden leaned in with a curious grin, "tell us a little more about yourself. You've been living under the radar with Enzo all this time, and we know next to nothing about you."
All eyes turned to me, and I suddenly felt the weight of their attention. I cleared my throat, trying to gather my thoughts. "Well, I'm not really all that interesting, but I'm originally from a small town in the Midwest. Moved here recently because... well, family stuff."
I glanced at Enzo, who gave me a reassuring nod, silently telling me it was okay to share whatever I wanted. "I live with my mom, my little sister Callie, and, well, Casper and Enzo."
"Casper?" Ethan asked, tilting his head slightly. "Is that...?"
"Yeah, Casper's Enzo's dad. My stepdad now." I smiled softly, glancing at Enzo. "He's great, honestly. At first, it was weird, you know? Getting used to a new family setup. But Casper's been patient, really supportive, and he treats my mom like gold. And Callie—well, she's only four and already wrapped him around her little finger."
