Ethan's POV
The night breeze carried the salty ocean scent as Stella and I lounged on the beach house balcony. The moon spilled silvery light over the shadowy water, while the rhythmic crash of waves on the shore provided a perfect background score.
"This beats city life any day." I took a long sip of my Coke, enjoying the fizzy sweetness.
Stella stretched out in her chair, her feet propped up on the railing. "No kidding. I bet the others are having more fun inside playing that ridiculous drinking game."
We could hear Matthew's voice carrying through the open windows, followed by bursts of laughter.
Stella shook her empty glass. "I need a refill. Want anything?"
"I'm good." I lifted my still-full Coke.
"Your loss." She disappeared inside, leaving me alone with the ocean view and the
