*Lauren*

The next morning, as the first light of dawn came through the trees, I hesitantly opened my front door and stepped out onto the porch. The cool ocean breeze caressed my face, carrying the salty scent of the waves crashing against the nearby shore. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, letting the fresh morning air fill my lungs.

Leaning against the wooden railing, I surveyed our family's private beach resort, peaceful in the early hours before the ...