*Lauren*

The colors of the sunrise bled across the sky, a canvas of pink and gold that reflected off the gentle waves. The soft murmur of the ocean was a comforting constant as I walked beside Lucas, his presence as warm as the sun's first rays.

Peace wrapped around me like the light breeze, carrying away the remnants of my old life—the parties in NYC, the silver spoons, the empty laughter, and everything that came after.

"Beautiful morning," I murmured, my voice ...