Chapter 201. A Short Escape

Aurora’s POV

As the last few voices fade into the distance, I turn to Caleb, feeling the warmth of his hand still lingering on mine. There’s a gentle, knowing look in his eyes as he squeezes my fingers lightly, and for a moment, I allow myself to exhale, the weight of everything momentarily lifting. “Come to the beach with me,” he says, his voice low, inviting, a soft escape from the noise of the day.

The idea is immediately tempting—just the two of us, the sound of the waves, the salty air filling our lungs. I nod almost instantly, eager for the distraction, eager for him.

But just as I open my mouth to respond, another voice chimes in. “Oh! That sounds fun! Can I come too?” Avery’s bright eyes look between us, hopeful and unaware of the small hesitation that stiffens my body. I don’t blame her for asking—she’s always been this way, full of energy, wanting to be part of everything.

But still, disappointment tugs at me. I had wanted this moment alone w