Before The Storm

Chapter 20

As the week progressed, I could hardly contain my excitement for our annual trip to my parents' cabin. It was a tradition that included my close friends. This year felt different, though; I was inviting Cole, and the thought of spending a weekend with him in that setting sent butterflies fluttering in my stomach

When the weekend finally arrived, I felt a rush of anticipation. As we piled into the car for the trip to the cabin, the excitement was palpable. I slid into the backseat next to Cole, the familiar chatter of our friends filling the air. The playlist I had curated blasted through the speakers, setting a lively tone.

Cole leaned closer, grinning. "What's this? Your secret playlist for a road trip?"

"Absolutely! It's essential," I replied, shoving him playfully. "Gotta keep the vibe alive."

"Let's see what you've got." He reached over, scrolling through the songs. "This one?" He pressed play, and a catchy pop song filled the car.

Once we arrived at the cabin, the familiar scent of pine trees and the sound of waves lapping against the shore welcomed us. Everyone scattered to unpack and set up the place, and I felt a sense of joy at having Cole here with me.

As the night fell, we gathered around the fire pit. Laughter filled the air as we drank red wine and shared stories. I watched Cole engage with my friends, feeling a warmth in my chest as I realized how easily he fit in.

"Let's go for a swim!" Nathan suddenly shouted, his energy infectious.

"Yes!" I exclaimed, a bit too loudly, feeling the alcohol from earlier bubble up inside me. "I'm so down!"

"Are you sure?" Cole asked, a teasing glint in his eyes. "You're not too tipsy for a swim?"

I rolled my eyes playfully. "Please, I can handle it!"

Cole's expression softened slightly, but I could still see the protectiveness lingering. "Just... be careful, okay?" he said, and I nodded, appreciating his concern.

Everyone began to cheer, and we all sprinted down to the dock, excitement buzzing through us. The cool night air felt refreshing against my skin, and I could hardly contain my giggles as we reached the edge of the water.

"Cannonball contest!" Nathan declared, already preparing to leap in.

"Count me in!" I shouted, my drunken confidence taking over. I ran and jumped, splashing into the water with a loud splash.

When I resurfaced, I wiped the water from my face and looked around for Cole, he was waiting, arms crossed, a frown etched on his face.

"Are you okay?" I asked, getting out of the water.

"Yeah, just... don't get too close to him, alright?" Cole replied, his tone softer now, though the edge was still there.

I took a breath, realizing this was an important moment. "Cole, I invited you here because I want to be with you. You don't have to worry about him."

His eyes softened as he stepped closer. "I know."

I reached for his hand, intertwining my fingers with his. "We're in this together, remember? Just talk to me."

He nodded, the tension easing slightly. "I'm still getting used to this whole... us thing."

"Me too," I admitted, leaning in to give him a reassuring kiss. The warmth of his lips against mine reminded me of why I wanted him here in the first place.

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As the last of our friends trickled away, the night felt quieter, more intimate. The embers of the fire crackled softly, casting flickering shadows on the sand. I turned to Cole, who had been sitting beside me, a thoughtful look on his face.