Kayla's POV

As the sun set, filling the sky with orange and pink, Fiona and I sat on the warm sand at the edge of town, excited to see the day turn into night.

“Thank you for today, Kayla. It was amazing,” she said, her eyes shining like the waves behind her.

“Absolutely! I had a blast,” I replied, feeling happy.

We enjoyed a peaceful silence, watching the sun dip into the sea, creating beautiful reflections all around us.

“Look how beautiful it is,” Fiona said, gazing at the view.

“Right? It’s mesmerizing,” I agreed, feeling very content.

After the sunset, I was driving Fiona home. It felt like a great end to a wonderful day.

“Thanks again, Kayla, for everything. I can’t wait to see you at school on Monday,” she said, smiling brightly.

“Can’t wait! Bye!” I waved, feeling excited.

Today had been fantastic—reading together, enjoying treats at Jenny's and Macy's, and playing 20 Questions. But as the day ended, I felt a mix of gratitude and a hint of anxiety creeping in.

“Hey, Kayla!” Mum's cheerful voice called as I entered the house.

“Hi, Mum,” I replied, trying to sound cheerful.

“Where have you been?” she asked, her eyes looking curious.

“I was hanging out with a... friend,” I said, pausing before I spoke.

“Oh really? Who’s this friend?” she asked, showing interest.

“She’s a new girl at school. Her family just moved here,” I explained, hoping she would approve.

“That’s wonderful! I’m so glad you’re making new friends,” she smiled, making me feel warm inside.

“Yeah, me too,” I said quietly, feeling a bit uncertain. “I’ll be on the phone with the twins. Can you call me for dinner when it’s ready?” I added, wanting to go to my room.

As I walked up the stairs, I felt heavy in my chest. I had enjoyed the day, but doubts began to fill my mind. I worried about my ability to build a friendship with Fiona. My insecurities often surfaced when I let my guard down. With each step, I tried to push those thoughts away, but they lingered like a shadow.

As I stepped into my room, a wave of relaxation washed over me. I flopped onto my bed, sinking into the comfort of the pillows. After a few minutes of unwinding, I grabbed my phone and called the twins.

"Hey, guys!" I chirped when they picked up.

"Hey Kayla! How was your day?" they said in perfect harmony.

"It was awesome! We had brunch at Jenny's, then had some ice cream at Macy's. After that, we hit the mall for some book shopping and ended the day at the beach, watching the sunset," I shared, a smile spreading across my face just recalling it.

"That sounds amazing!" Lila exclaimed.

"It really was," I agreed, feeling the warmth of friendship.

"I'm glad you had fun, Kayla," Luca chimed in, his voice full of sincerity.

"What about you guys? How did your day go?"

"Ours was great!" they replied.

"Luca baked a chocolate cake, and thankfully, I stayed out of the kitchen, or it would have been a disaster," Lila said, her laughter infectious. I couldn't help but join in.

"Definitely! I can only imagine," I giggled.

"Hey!" Lila protested, feigning offense, but her smile betrayed her.

We shared a hearty laugh, which instantly lifted my mood.

"So, what are you two up to now?"

"Just lounging on the bed, waiting for dinner," Luca said with a hint of boredom.

"Same here," Lila added.

"Looks like we’re all in sync," I chuckled.

"So, what books did you get?" Luca asked curiously.

"Onyx Storm, The Great Gatsby, To Kill a Mockingbird, and Little Women!" I listed off excitedly.

"Great choices!" Lila praised.

Even though Lila preferred socializing over reading, she still appreciated a good story. Luca, however, wouldn't be caught dead with a book in his hands.

Just then, I heard a knock at the door. Mum peeked in and said, "Dinner's ready." I nodded, and she left, closing the door behind her.

"Guys, I’ve gotta run. Dinner awaits! Love you both, and see you tomorrow!" I said, feeling a little tug at my heart.

Dinner with Mum was quiet, but afterward, we settled down in the living room to watch a few movies before bedtime.

The next morning, I made breakfast for myself after Mum headed off to work. I whipped up some crispy bacon and sautéed mushrooms, paired with fresh pineapple juice.

Post-breakfast, I dove into some laundry. Once that was sorted, I took a quick nap before heading to the twins' house.

Dressed in a brown long-sleeve shirt, a plaid skirt, and my favorite boots, I knocked on the door, anticipation bubbling inside me. Lila opened it with a bright smile.

"Hi Kayla! You look great!" she praised.

"Thanks!" I beamed back.

Paul and Kate were lounging in the living room, and they greeted me with warm hellos.

"Hey Kayla! How are your studies going? Still at the top of your class?" Paul asked, genuinely interested.

"So far, so good! My grades have been great too," I replied.

"Modesty doesn't suit you, Kayla," Paul teased.

"Thanks, sir!" I shot back playfully.

Kate opened her arms wide, "Come here! It's been too long since I’ve had a hug from you!"

I hurried over and wrapped her in a warm embrace, Paul joining us in a group hug.

"I’m so jealous right now!" Lila exclaimed, pretending to sulk.

We quickly made room for her, and she dove in for a hug too, laughter filling the air.

After spending a few minutes in the living room, I turned to Lila. "Where's Luca?"

"In his room, as usual," Lila shrugged with a knowing smile.

I headed upstairs, eager to see him. Knocking on his door, I waited for his “come in.”

"Hey, Luca," I greeted, stepping inside.

"Hey Kay, when did you get here?" he asked, looking pleasantly surprised.

"About fifteen minutes ago."

"I'm sure Mum and Dad kept you busy. Have you eaten?" he asked, concern etched on his face.

"Yeah, Lila offered me a can of Coke," I replied.

"Okay, remember that cake I made yesterday? I'll grab you a slice!" he said, bolting out of the room.

In no time, he returned with a tray featuring two generous slices of chocolate cake and a glass of juice.

"Thanks!" I said as he set the tray in front of me.

I took a cautious bite, suddenly shy under his gaze, which felt more intense than usual.

"Why are your cheeks a little pink?" he asked, a teasing grin on his face.

"Uh, um—"

"Is it that good?" he nudged, clearly enjoying my flustered state.

"Nobody's cheeks flush over dessert, dummy," I said, trying to brush off the warmth creeping up my face. "I think I'm coming down with something."

"Are you okay?" he asked, his hand gently resting on my forehead. The touch sent a shiver down my spine.

"I'm fine. I’ll just take something for it when I get home," I hurriedly replied, hoping to divert his concern.

"So, how’s the dessert?" he inquired, a playful glint in his eyes.

"It's really good. Thanks," I said, savoring each bite as sweetness lingered.

"I’ve definitely gotten better at baking, haven’t I?" he asked, a hint of pride in his voice.

"You absolutely have," I replied, unable to suppress a smile.

My mind drifted back to moments ago, lost in the laughter and warmth of the evening. What was this new feeling I had toward Luca? It was electric, coursing through me like the very sugar we were having.