Chapter 1: Introduction
A salty breeze wafted through the air, carrying with it the scent of sunscreen and suntan lotion, while laughter and chatter filled the warm air. The soft white sand beneath my feet felt warm and soothing as I strolled along the shoreline, taking in the breathtaking view of the turquoise sea stretching out to the horizon. It was a perfect day, and as I dipped my toes into the water, I couldn't help but feel a sense of serenity wash over me.
But the peace and tranquility were soon shattered by the sound of my name being called out. Turning around, I saw Kris, the man I had once loved, approaching me with a smirk on his face.
"Hey there, gorgeous," he said, his deep voice sending shivers down my spine. "Kris," I said, trying to keep my voice steady, "What are you doing here?"
He rolled his eyes and the smirk deepened. "Come on, don't tell me you didn't know I was coming.
I wouldn't miss a chance to spend the day with you." He stepped closer, and I could feel the heat radiating off his muscular body. I took a step back, but my back was already against the cool, damp sand. He towered over me, his silver hair glinting in the bright sun.
"You didn't invite me," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. I tried to sound strong, but even I could hear the wavering in my tone.
I was unsure, unsure of what I wanted, and unsure of what Kris intended. But there was something about his confident swagger, the way he filled up my eyeline with his perfect features, that made me feel like I couldn't resist him.
"I did invite you," he said, a mischievous glint in his eyes." I invited both of us, actually. Rod's here too."
My head whipped around to where my other friend was sprawled out on a towel, a pair of eyeglasses perched precariously on the bridge of his nose.