Faded Echoes

CHAPTER 9

Alexis's POv

I woke up around 5:30 a.m., the soft sound of waves lapping at the shore calling to me. I wanted to seize the morning and run along the seashore while waiting for the sunrise. There was something magical about the early hours, a peacefulness that felt like a fresh start.

I quickly changed into my workout outfit—a lightweight, breathable tank top and a pair of snug running shorts that complemented the beach vibe. I slipped on my favorite running shoes, the ones I always wore when I wanted to feel free and energized.

With a smile, I grabbed my AirPods and turned on some music, setting it to my Taylor Swift playlist. River and I had always shared a love for her songs, bonding over lyrics that felt like they were written just for us. As I started my warm-up, I could already feel the excitement building for the day ahead. The thought of spending more time with River filled me with anticipation.

Once I felt ready, I stepped outside, the cool morning breeze brushing against my skin. I took a deep breath, inhaling the salty air as I set off down the sandy path. The sound of Taylor's voice blended with the gentle roar of the ocean, and I felt a sense of freedom with each stride I took.

As the sun began to rise, casting golden hues across the horizon, I found myself running toward my favorite spot—a secluded overlook that offered a breathtaking view of the dawn breaking over the city. My heart raced, not just from the exertion but also from the anticipation of watching the sun’s first light stretch across the sky. The cool morning air filled my lungs, and I felt the sweat trickle down my back as I slowed to a stop.

Reaching the edge of the cliff, I took a moment to ground myself in the beauty before me. The world felt still, almost sacred, as the sun peeked over the buildings, bathing everything in warm light. It was a moment of solace I desperately needed, a time to collect my thoughts and feelings that had been swirling around in my mind like the clouds above.

But my peace was short-lived. I heard soft footsteps behind me, followed by a familiar voice. “Good morning, Lexi!”

I turned to see Cleo approaching, her bright smile almost as radiant as the sunrise. There was a spark of surprise in her eyes, but also something else—curiosity, perhaps?

“Morning, Cleo,” I replied, trying to keep my tone light. “What are you doing here?”

Cleo stepped closer, her gaze flicking from the horizon back to me. “I like to come here to think, just like you. But I didn’t expect to find you in such a... meditative state,” she said, her smile widening. “How’s it going with River?”

The question caught me off guard. I had expected small talk, maybe some idle chitchat about the sunrise, but not this. I hesitated, weighing my words carefully. “It’s... complicated,” I admitted, feeling a lump form in my throat. “She doesn’t remember us—us, as in our past together.”

Cleo raised an eyebrow, leaning against the railing beside me. “I heard. But I can’t help but wonder, how do you manage to be so close to her? I mean, doesn’t it hurt to be around someone who doesn’t remember the love you once shared?”

The question hung in the air between us, and I could feel the weight of it. It did hurt, more than I cared to admit, but I was determined to be there for River while she figured herself out. “It’s not easy, but she’s still... she’s still River. The same girl I fell in love with. I just want to help her.”

Cleo’s expression softened, but I noticed the flicker of something more—an underlying interest that had been there before. “Alexis,” she began, her tone shifting slightly, “I get that you want to be there for her. But don’t you think it’s time to stop being a martyr? You deserve to move forward, to find someone who remembers you, who can love you back.”