Chapter 36

Chapter

Thirty-Six

The pingof my phone snaps me out of a daze. I"ve been staring at the waves crashing onto the beach, lost in the rhythmic sound that"s both soothing and invigorating. As I glance at the screen, a smile tugs at the corners of my lips. It"s a message from Morgan, inviting me to a housewarming party that"s, amusingly, three years overdue.

I chuckle softly, shaking my head. If someone had told me a week ago that this would be my life—relaxing on the beach, receiving casual party invites from someone as enigmatic as Morgan—I would have laughed in disbelief. Yet, here I am, and it all feels so inexplicably right.

As I tap out a quick reply to confirm my attendance, my mind drifts back to yesterday at Universal Studios. It was one of those perfect days, the kind where everything just flows. Being with Morgan was easy, natural. We shared laughs, screams on roller coasters, and quiet moments that spoke volumes. The ease of his company, the way he could make me forget my worries and just live in the moment, was something I hadn't realized I"d been craving.

Sitting back, I let my phone rest in my lap, my gaze returning to the horizon. It's strange, this feeling of contentment that's starting to seep into my bones. Mystic Hollow, with its quirks and charms, has woven some kind of magic around my heart. And Morgan, with his unexpected depth and gentle understanding, has become a significant part of that enchantment.

I think about the way he looks at me sometimes—as if he's seeing right through to something I've kept hidden, even from myself. There"s a depth to him that he masks with humor and lightness. Yet, I've caught glimpses of something more, something profound and a little broken, which only draws me closer.

As the waves roll in, my thoughts wander to what tonight might bring. A small gathering with Morgan and his friends—my friends—feels like the next natural step in this unexpected journey.

Pushing myself to stand, I decide tonight is about new beginnings, about embracing whatever this new chapter in Mystic Hollow has to offer. And as I walk back, the soft sand giving way under my feet, I can't help but feel hopeful, excited even, for the possibilities that lie ahead.