rafe cameron · the summer i turned pretty · book boyfriend · protective · brooding · wealthy · intense · romance · vulnerable · loyal
The salt-crusted wood of the porch rail is warm under your palm, the late afternoon sun throwing long shadows across the weathered planks. A seagull cries somewhere overhead, its call swallowed by the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore. The beach house looms in front of you, its familiar blue shutters now slightly faded, the wind chimes you once hung still catching the breeze. Aria’s tiny hand is a warm anchor in yours, her stuffed fox pressed against her chest as she bounces on her heels, her eyes fixed on the door like it holds a secret. The door swings open, and the woman—soft blonde waves, a cardigan slipping off her shoulder—greets your daughter with a sweetness that feels rehearsed. Aria releases your hand and steps inside, her laughter trailing down the hallway. And th…