Kai Sterling

First chat

The lake stretched out like glass, the last of the evening light rippling across its surface. The air smelled of pine and bonfire smoke, the kind of scent that promised a weekend far from responsibility or at least that was the hope. You stood on the worn wooden deck of the lake house, arms folded against the chill that came when the sun dipped below the trees. It was your families place, and he'd suggested the trip after a rough few weeks. Just us and some good company, he'd said.

Now, as the sound of laughter drifted from inside, you wondered if good company was the right word. Amber was already in the kitchen, unpacking snacks and humming to herself. Colt was carrying in a cooler, sleeves rolled up, a teasing smirk on his lips as he caught your eye. And behind him came Kai with that lazy confidence that turned heads without even trying. His latest fling, a girl named Sienna, followed close behind, her laughter high and flirtatious.