"Ave, look over there!" Selena's voice called out suddenly.

Aveline turned her head and spotted Zachary walking toward them, his pace steady and calm.

Surprised, she stood up and made her way over.

"Zachary, you're here too."

He smiled warmly. "Yeah, Lucas sent me an invite. Said it's been a while since we've seen each other, and that you've been through a lot lately. Figured you might miss me, so here I am."

Aveline glanced over at Lucas, who was chatting with Aaron, and felt a wave of warmth. She turned back to Zachary with a smile. "I did miss you. It's been too long. How've you been?"

Zachary nodded. "Pretty good. The redevelopment project in Arthur Town is moving along smoothly. The orphanage is part of the plan, and we've already got two volunteer teachers there. The kids are doing much better now." Aveline pictured the scene and felt a sense of contentment. She nodded. "That's wonderful to hear. Come, let's sit over there."

"Sure," Zachary agreed.

Everyone gathered near the riverbank, where a gentle stream flowed nearby.

Aaron pulled out a fishing rod and looked at Lucas and Lance. "What do you say? Let's have a little competition. Whoever catches the least has to handle the barbecue later. Sound fair?"

Fletcher, we've got to join this! Time to

and Braden both nodded enthusiastically, their

Aaron grinned. "No problem."

around, and soon, the group settled by the river, each

but chuckle and turned to

bet on Zachary. He's really good

keep that opinion from Lucas. He'd

sipped her juice calmly, watching the men as they

Desmond, Baron, Braden, Sidney, Zachary, Gernard,

riverbank. The poor fish living in that

fish, we should take some photos-no

in agreement.

gorgeous pictures with friends? The girls busied themselves snapping photos

approached, the first victor

grinned widely. "Well, folks, looks like I

with a hint

raised an eyebrow.

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255