Southern Charm | wlw

7

The morning sun streamed through the dorm room window, casting a warm glow over the chaotic pile of clothes and textbooks strewn across the floor. Aspen stirred, stretching out beneath her covers, the events of the previous day still fresh in her mind. The beach had been an exhilarating escape, but today felt different—charged with anticipation.

"Hey, sleepyhead!" Maya called from the kitchenette, her voice bubbling with energy. Aspen peeked over her pillow to see Maya whipping up a breakfast smoothie. "You want one?"

"Sure! As long as it doesn't taste like grass," Aspen replied, rubbing her eyes.

Maya laughed. "No promises! But it's loaded with superfoods. It'll help you recover from last night's beach debauchery."

"Debauchery? We played volleyball and swam in the ocean!" Aspen grinned, pulling herself up to sit on the edge of her bed. "How can that be debauchery?"

Maya rolled her eyes playfully. "You clearly have a different definition than I do."

As Aspen slipped on her favorite pair of denim shorts and a comfy oversized t-shirt that read "Southern Girl," she couldn't shake the excitement buzzing in the air. They had plans to explore a local farmer's market today, and she was looking forward to trying all the fresh produce and artisan snacks.

"Ready for some adventure?" Maya asked, handing Aspen a bright green smoothie that looked suspiciously like it could be good for her.

"Only if you're ready for my famous 'no vegetable' policy," Aspen quipped, taking a sip and immediately regretting her decision. "Wow, this is... interesting," she managed, forcing a smile as the kale flavor punched her taste buds.

"Just wait until you feel all the energy!" Maya said, oblivious to the look of shock on Aspen's face. "Now, let's get out there before all the good stuff is gone!"

With a final glance in the mirror, Aspen grabbed her backpack and the two friends headed out of the dorm. The air outside was crisp, a refreshing change from the warm, stuffy confines of their room. They hopped into Aspen's Denali, and she revved the engine, the familiar rumble making her heart race with excitement.

"Next stop: fresh produce and cute stands!" Aspen declared, her southern drawl coming out with each word.

Maya leaned back in her seat, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "And maybe some cute guys?"

"Only if they're at least as cute as my truck," Aspen joked, giving the dashboard a pat as they pulled away from campus.

The drive to the farmer's market was filled with laughter and loud music, with Aspen turning up the volume on her favorite country playlist. They sang along, the sound of their voices mingling with the wind rushing through the open windows. As they arrived, the market buzzed with activity. Brightly colored tents lined the streets, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and baked goods.

"Look at all this!" Maya exclaimed, her eyes wide as she took in the vibrant displays. They parked the Denali and stepped out, the sun warming their skin as they ambled into the market, laughter echoing around them.

They wandered through the stalls, sampling strawberries, picking up artisanal bread, and giggling over quirky handmade trinkets. Just as they were about to grab some lemonade, Aspen's phone buzzed in her pocket.

She pulled it out, her heart skipping a beat as she saw Chloe's name flashing on the screen. Her best friend from home was calling.

"Hey, Chloe! What's up?" Aspen answered, trying to keep her voice steady.

"Surprise! I'm in San Diego!" Chloe's voice bubbled with excitement. "I thought I'd drop by and see you!"

Aspen's stomach fluttered, a mix of excitement and anxiety washing over her. "Oh wow, really? When will you be here?"