Where My Heart Belongs

9. The Beach Getaway : Antara & Aiden

Author's Note: Hey guys, a quick note before you read this chapter. It has a dual POV, both of Antara and Aiden, unlike the previous chapter. I will occasionally do such chapters to minimise redundancy and confusion. So this will be like a really long chapter. 

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Aiden's POV

I woke up to the soft light filtering through my window, the promise of Saturday unfurling before me. Today was supposed to be a break from the usual grind, a day to shake off the weight of my responsibilities and enjoy some time with my friends. I tossed the covers aside and made my way to the bathroom, mentally preparing for whatever the day would bring.

After a quick shower, I dressed casually in a light blue shirt and comfortable swimming trunks, excited about the beach outing Marco and Leo had planned. They hadn't given me many details, only that it would be a relaxing day. As I grabbed my phone to check the time, another message pinged:

Marco: On our way! Bring your beach gear!

I smiled at their enthusiasm, feeling a bit of the previous day's tension melt away.

Once I was ready, I headed downstairs, eager to meet up with Marco and Leo. As soon as I stepped outside, I saw their car pulling up. Marco was at the wheel, and Leo leaned out the window, waving enthusiastically.

"Let's go!" Leo shouted, his excitement contagious.

As we drove toward the beach outside Boston, the salty air began to fill the car, and the sound of waves crashing in the distance made me feel lighter. I leaned back in my seat, trying to shake off the worries of the past week. It was time to unwind.

When we arrived, I was struck by the beauty of the beach. The sun sparkled on the water, and the sand felt warm beneath my feet. I looked around, taking in the sight of families and friends scattered across the shoreline, laughter and chatter filling the air.

"Let's find a good spot!" Leo said, leading the way as we made our way to the beach.

After a few minutes of searching, we settled on a cosy spot near the water, and I pulled out my towel. We spread it out and started setting up. Marco had packed a cooler filled with snacks and drinks, while Leo set up the portable speaker, ready to fill the air with music.

As I relaxed on the towel, I noticed a group of people approaching, and my heart raced when I recognized Kiara among them. She waved enthusiastically, and behind her was Antara. My breath caught in my throat as I processed their presence. Especially Antara. She was wearing a navy blue one-piece swimsuit, with a flannel coverup on top, and seeing her in that made my heart stop.

"What's this?" I asked, my eyebrows raised in surprise. "You guys didn't tell me they'd be joining us!"

Marco grinned, clearly pleased with himself. "Surprise! We figured you could use a little extra company."

I shot him a playful glare, but deep down, I felt a rush of excitement at the idea of spending the day with her.

Kiara and Antara made their way over, and as they settled down on the blanket next to me, I tried to keep my composure. "Hey, I didn't expect to see you guys here," I said, meeting Antara's gaze.

Antara's eyes widened, a look of genuine surprise crossing her face. "I didn't know you'd be here," she replied, her tone a mix of excitement and disbelief. "I thought this was just a casual day out for Kiara."

"Marco had other plans," I said, glancing at Marco, who was grinning from ear to ear.

Kiara settled beside Antara and offered her a supportive smile. "I thought we could all use some time by the beach," she said lightly, aware of Antara's usual hesitance.