Always you

Chapter 4

The next morning, sunlight filtered through Sasha's bedroom window, casting a warm glow over her room. She stretched luxuriously, enjoying the sense of comfort that came from staying in this home once more. She'd slipped back into the rhythms of her old hometown, but the previous night had somehow shifted things. Memories of the evening came back to her—the easy banter with Rafe, the electricity of their conversation. She couldn't shake it, and as she got dressed, she found herself wondering if, and when, she'd see him again.

A knock sounded at her door, and Daniel's familiar voice called out, "Sasha, you up? Alex had to leave for a work meeting, so I'm on breakfast duty." She'd met him after the longest time last night, when he randomly happened to show up in the middle of the party, with no clue what was happening. The look on his face was one she would never forget.

Sasha grinned as she opened the door to see Daniel standing there, leaning casually against the frame with his characteristic easy smile. Daniel had always been charming in his own way, with a certain warmth that instantly put people at ease. While Alex was steady and practical, Daniel had a wilder energy about him that kept things interesting.

"Morning, Danny," she greeted, stepping out and giving him a quick hug.

"Ready for breakfast?" he asked. "I thought we could do more than just toast for a change."

"Wow, going gourmet on me," she teased, following him to the kitchen.

After a leisurely breakfast filled with laughter and reminiscing, Daniel leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers on the table thoughtfully. "You know," he said, "it's been a while since you've had the full town tour. How about I take you out to the country club? We could grab lunch, maybe a drink. You'll get to see some familiar faces."

"Sounds perfect," she said, brightening at the idea. "It's been ages since I've been there."

An hour later, Sasha and Daniel were driving down the winding road that led to the country club. The town rolled by, full of quiet charm and tree-lined streets that felt almost nostalgic. Sasha couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment, as if everything was falling back into place.

The country club was perched on a hill, surrounded by manicured lawns and blooming flowers. It hadn't changed a bit, with its classic white columns and sprawling terraces overlooking the town. As they entered, a few familiar faces greeted them, and Sasha exchanged polite smiles, caught between the old and the new.

Just as they found a table by the windows, a voice called out from across the room. "Daniel! I didn't know you'd be here today!"

Sasha turned to see a woman striding over, her long dark hair spilling over her shoulders and a welcoming smile lighting up her face. She was striking, with an effortless style and a warmth that seemed to radiate from her. Daniel stood up, gesturing between them.

"Sasha, meet Layla. Layla, this is Sasha—she's staying with us for the summer," he introduced. "She's basically family."

Layla's eyes sparkled as she extended her hand. "Ah, the infamous Sasha. Alex has mentioned you so many times. I think I know more about you than you might know about yourself."

Sasha laughed, taking her hand. "Likewise. I think we're long overdue for a proper meeting."

Layla took the seat next to Sasha, her energy instantly infusing the space around them. "So, Sasha," she began, leaning in conspiratorially, "I hear you've been gone for ages. Tell me—what brought you back to our little town?"

Sasha smiled, feeling oddly at ease. "Oh, a mix of things, I suppose. Some nostalgia, the chance to reconnect, you know, the little things. I missed this place, honestly, even if it still feels a little strange to be back."