Juniper's Pov
As Theo and I walk out of the water, my body feels lighter, like I have shed a layer of tension I did not know I was carrying. The swim had been… unexpected, but nice. Surprisingly relaxed, even easy. For a moment, I let myself imagine that things can be this simple between us.
The sand is cool beneath my feet as we step onto the beach, and I glance sideways at Theo. He looks content, his expression softer than I have seen it ever since he came back into my life. There’s something almost vulnerable about him, and for reasons I cannot explain, it makes my chest ache.
But then I see him—Liam, standing further up the beach, his figure silhouetted against the morning sun.
My steps falter, and my heart gives an uncomfortable twist. Guilt floods me, swift and sharp, and I’m not
