The car pulls up the familiar driveway, gravel crunching under the tires. Belly glances out the window, a smile tugging at her lips as she sees the beach house come into view. The hydrangeas are in full bloom, just like every summer.

Aiden is always there too, but this time he isn’t there yet.

Laurel: “Alright, everyone out. Help me with the bags.”

Steven groans but steps out, stretching. Belly quickly climbs out, inhaling the salty air, feeling the familiar pull of the ocean.

Laurel pops the trunk, tossing a bag to Steven as Susannah steps out of the house with a wide smile.

Susannah: “There they are!”

She wraps Laurel in a hug, then turns to Belly, her energy lifting her spirits.

Susannah: “Belly, you’re glowing!”

Belly blushes, scanning the house for Conrad or Jeremiah as she feels the familiar warmth of summer settle around her.