جميع فصول : الفصل -الفصل 30

Aria’s POV“What do you mean break your bank?” Maira looks at me in confusion, her eyebrows raised in genuine surprise.“Break my bank in the sense that I would be financially incapacitated if I dared to take a vacation at this stage or point in time. That would be absolute madness! There is no way I would dare to undertake such a risk. Simply put, I do not have the money.”Maira stares at me for a moment, her confusion giving way to laughter that echoes throughout the restaurant.“Pfft, what the heck do you mean, Aria? You have enough money to fund enough vacations now and in your next life.”Huh? What in the world is she talking about?“Sometimes, I wonder why you even work so much. You aren't even broke, but yet! You insist on all of this. How about you take that break you keep talking about instead? Breaking down is not your forte, and I do not advise it for you or anyone else.”“Maira, if you want a vacation, just say so.” I glance at her incredulously. What is she even going on

Aria’s POV“Oh yeah? Good for you, because it looks like you’ve found my replacement in dear oh Susie. Have fun while it lasts.” I flip him off for good measure as I push past him, descending the stairs and stepping into the arms of my so-called “family,” who are probably convinced by now that I have completely lost it.“Aria, come sit down right now. You aren’t leaving this house until you apologize for your actions,” my mother demands, her tone dripping with scorn.I scoff at her audacity. Really? What is she going to do? Tie me down?“Mother, with all due respect, I am leaving, and I most definitely will not apologize to your little brat of a daughter. I will not allow the both of you to delude her. And Father, please stop looking at me as if I’m some alien. This isn’t a soap opera for your observations. Hold your wife and do not let her shade of crazy get to me. It’s for her own sake and mine.”Their reactions are what I expect—shock, confusion, and a hint of anger flickering in t

Aria’s POV“Yeah, she’s not worth your attention,” Maira adds, her voice firm. “You’re on the verge of something fun. Just think about how this vacation could change everything for you, Aria. New experiences, new perspectives! Imagine all the opportunities waiting for you out there. Just breathe it in.”I nod, letting their words wash over me like a soothing mantra. Perhaps they are right. Perhaps this is a chance, a turning point I need desperately. With a lighter heart, I ask, “Okay, so what’s the first thing we’re going to do when we arrive?”Emily grins, “Hit the beach, of course! Then we head to that bar Maira scheduled for drinks and live music. We’ll make friends, dance like nobody’s watching, and just embrace everything this trip has to offer!”****Soon enough, our flight is called, and we board. We have already taken out our masks, and I sink into my seat on the cramped airplane, grateful that my flight to Paulos Island is finally about to take off. It feels like a well-dese

Aria’s POV“Are you ready to steal the night?” Emily adds, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.“Oh, you bet I am!” I reply, feeling the thrill course through my veins.The energy between us crackles like electricity as we stand, ready to embrace the night, whatever it might bring. I have a feeling it has plenty in store for us. With one final glance in the mirror, we adjust our outfits, making sure every detail is perfect before heading out. The anticipation in the air is palpable, and I can practically taste the excitement.As we step into the vibrant nightlife of the city, the sounds of laughter and music surround us, pulling us into the pulsating heart of the party. Bright lights flash against the darkness of the street, guiding our path to the club.As we reach the entrance of the club, I feel a rush of exhilaration. I take a deep breath, feeling alive in a way I haven’t in a long time. This is exactly what I need—a night fueled by laughter, dancing, and possibilities.T

AT THE BARMaira’s POVThe bar is alive with energy, music pulsating through the air as I scan the crowd, my eyes landing on Emily. She leans against the bar, her laughter ringing out like a challenge. We have never been friends—far from it. We have danced around each other with verbal jabs and icy glances, a rivalry that sparks tension and animosity. But tonight, fueled by alcohol and adrenaline, that tension feels different, more electric. I don’t like the way the guys are trying to impress her. Sure, she is definitely pretty, but in that outfit? Lethal is much more accurate.“Can you believe we’re stuck in the same place?” Emily shouts over the music, her voice dripping with mockery while a sly smile plays on her lips.“Trust me, I’d rather be anywhere else. All these boys hanging off you is annoying enough. I need to breathe,” I shoot back, yet even I can hear the wavering in my tone. Something about the moment catches me off-guard, the tension crackling between us more palpable