The birds chirped, people chatted in the distance, and the gentle morning sun kissed Susan's face, coaxing her awake. She blinked, adjusting to the brightness, and noticed Franco was nowhere to be seen. Letting out a yawn, she stretched and decided to check out the terrace, enjoying the view and the fresh scent of the morning. Taking a deep breath, she dialed her parents in the United States.
"Hey, Dad," she greeted, feeling a twinge of homesickness.
"Morning, sweetie. How you doing?" George's voice came through.
"All good, just exploring the hacienda. It's beautiful here."
"Susan," Grace's voice chimed in, "remember my advice," she reminded sternly.
Susan chuckled, recalling her mother's instructions.
"Okay, Mom, got it. I'll call you tomorrow. Take care." She ended the call, sidest
