Southern Charm | wlw

6

The next day dawned bright and inviting, the sun spilling golden light across the campus of the University of San Diego. Aspen woke up to the sound of waves crashing in the distance, a sound that felt like a gentle invitation to adventure. She glanced over at Maya, still snoring softly, a peaceful look on her face. Smiling to herself, Aspen quietly slipped out of bed and pulled on a light, oversized flannel shirt, its faded plaid colors reminiscent of home. She paired it with her favorite pair of denim cutoffs, frayed at the edges, that showed off her tanned legs from all the time spent outside. The perfect outfit for a day by the beach.

After a quick breakfast of granola and yogurt, Aspen decided to let the smell of the ocean guide her. She nudged Maya awake, unable to hide her excitement. "Come on, sleepyhead! We're hitting the beach today!"

Maya blinked sleepily, a grin breaking across her face as she processed Aspen's words. "The beach? Now you're speaking my language! Let me grab my swimsuit." She darted to her closet, pulling out a vibrant, vintage-inspired two-piece with a high-waisted bottom and a colorful floral pattern that screamed retro summer. Maya quickly threw on a sheer, light kimono that fluttered as she moved, adding a bohemian touch to her ensemble. As she admired herself in the mirror, she caught Aspen's gaze and felt a warm flutter in her stomach. Just keep it cool, she reminded herself.

As Aspen and Maya made their way to the parking lot, they spotted Aspen's Denali gleaming under the sun. The black paint shone like a mirror, reflecting the bright blue sky above. "There she is," Aspen said, patting the hood affectionately. "Ready for another adventure?"

"Just as long as you don't wreck her," Maya teased, jumping into the passenger seat as Aspen slid behind the wheel.

"Ha! I'll have you know I'm a responsible driver," Aspen shot back with mock indignation as she turned the key and the engine roared to life. They pulled out of the campus parking lot and onto the road, the excitement buzzing between them.

The drive to the beach was filled with laughter and music, the windows rolled down, letting the warm breeze whip through their hair. Aspen felt a sense of freedom as they cruised along, the scent of saltwater mingling with the sweet notes of country music blasting from the speakers. Maya couldn't help but steal glances at Aspen, her heart racing as she watched her friend laugh and sing along, the sun catching the golden strands of her hair.

As they parked and stepped out of the truck, the heat of the sand beneath their feet hit them, and the sounds of laughter and waves crashing filled the air. "Welcome to paradise," Maya declared, spreading her arms wide as if embracing the ocean itself.

Aspen shed her flannel, revealing a simple black bikini that contrasted beautifully with her sun-kissed skin. She adjusted her sunglasses, the world instantly becoming tinted in soft shades of warmth. "Alright, let's hit the water!" she called out, sprinting toward the waves.

Maya followed, her laughter ringing out as she raced beside her. They splashed into the cool ocean, the water refreshing against their skin, and soon they were diving beneath the waves, surfacing with wild, salt-kissed hair and squeals of delight. Maya watched Aspen as she dove under, her competitive spirit shining through with every splash and squeal. She's amazing, Maya thought, her heart swelling with admiration.

After what felt like hours of playing in the water, they finally stumbled back onto the beach, breathless and exhilarated. They sprawled out on their towels, basking in the sun, the sounds of the beach surrounding them like a comforting blanket. Aspen dug into her beach bag, pulling out a pack of sunscreen.

"Okay, Maya," she said, shaking the bottle. "Time to protect that gorgeous skin of yours. We can't have you looking like a lobster by lunchtime."

Maya chuckled, rolling onto her stomach and adjusting her sunglasses. "Fine, but you better get my back," she replied, trying to hide the slight blush that crept up her cheeks. Aspen squirted the sunscreen into her hands and started applying it carefully.

"Wow, this is a lot like being in a relationship," Aspen joked, trying to reach the middle of Maya's back. "I can see how people get attached. What if you're not into it?"

Maya felt a flutter of excitement at the playful banter. "Let's just say you're the best 'boyfriend' I've ever had, and this is a very complicated love story." Her heart raced as she said it, hoping Aspen would laugh and not read too much into her words.

They both burst into laughter, the sound mingling with the crashing waves. After finishing with the sunscreen, Aspen took a moment to soak in her surroundings, the sun warm against her skin, the ocean stretching endlessly before her. She felt a weight lift off her shoulders, the worries of the past few days fading away with the tide.

Later, after sharing a picnic lunch of sandwiches and chips, they decided to explore the beach further. Aspen spotted a group of people playing beach volleyball and couldn't resist. "Let's join! I could use a little friendly competition," she exclaimed.

Maya hesitated but quickly caught Aspen's contagious enthusiasm. "Alright, but only if I get to be your partner. I can't have you embarrassing me out there!"

They approached the group, introducing themselves and quickly finding their way into a game. Aspen's competitive spirit flared, and she played hard, diving for the ball and laughing as Maya cheered her on. Every time Aspen scored, Maya felt a rush of pride, her admiration for her friend growing with each triumphant shout.

As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Aspen and Maya collapsed onto the sand, breathless and exhilarated. Aspen felt the sand sticking to her skin and the salty breeze whipping through her hair, and she couldn't remember the last time she had felt so alive.

"Best beach day ever," Maya declared, her hair a wild mess, a grin plastered across her face.

Aspen nodded, a content smile stretching across her lips. "I think we should make this a weekly thing."

"Absolutely! It's official: Beach Day is now a tradition!" Maya responded, stretching out on the sand, looking up at the sky.

As they lay there, watching the sun dip below the horizon, Aspen felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude wash over her. The ocean, the laughter, the warmth of a new friendship—everything felt like a fresh start. She glanced at Maya, who had her eyes closed, a peaceful expression on her face. For a fleeting moment, Maya's heart skipped a beat, and she wished she could capture this moment forever.

After a while, the girls packed up their things, ready to head back to the Denali. The soft glow of twilight wrapped around them as they walked hand-in-hand, the sand cool beneath their feet. As they reached the truck, Aspen couldn't shake the feeling that this day was a turning point, a step toward embracing her new life in San Diego, filled with friendships, laughter, and the promise of many more adventures to come. Little did she know, Maya was feeling the same, hoping that their connection would only grow stronger.

~

Today was absolutely incredible. I can't remember the last time I felt so free and alive. The beach was like something out of a postcard, with the sun setting in the most beautiful hues of orange and pink. I loved every moment—splashing in the waves, playing volleyball, and just lying on the sand with Maya. She's a great friend, and I feel like we really clicked today, sharing laughter and having fun like old pals. I appreciate how she brings out the best in me, and I can't help but feel grateful for this friendship. I'm still figuring things out, but if today is any indication, I think I'm going to love it here. Here's to more beach days and the excitement of new adventures.