Chapter 49
Fractured Dreams
(Esha’s POV)
The coastal breeze drifted through the open windows, carrying with it the faint scent of salt and pine. I sat in Aunt Sharon’s sunroom, watching the waves roll against the shore. It was the only view that could calm me, one that reminded me there was a world beyond my tangled mess of thoughts. A world that still held beauty, even if mine felt frayed and uncertain.
The soft chime of the doorbell pulled me from my reverie. I stood, brushing my hands over my sweater before making my way to the front door. Cassandra stood on the other side, her face lighting up as I opened the door. She looked every bit the picture of happiness—her hair pulled back into a chic ponytail, a bright smile on her face, and an engagement ring that sparkled on her left ha
