Gabby
I take in the breathtaking view of Heaven's Isle through the plane window, mesmerized by the lush, tropical vegetation and the glistening white sand beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. It truly feels like stepping into a paradise crafted by nature itself.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" Aaron's voice breaks through my awe. I turn to him and nod, sharing in the admiration of our surroundings. It's hard not to be captivated by the sheer beauty of this place.
As we step off the plane, the vivid blue sky seems even more vibrant than back home in Magpie Grove. Aaron's words reach me as we walk toward the line of jeeps. "This holiday is just what you need," he says, hinting at reassurance.
I glance at him, slightly puzzled.
He motions around us. "How can anyone be unhappy in surroundings as stunning as these?”
A smile tugs at my lips, despite conflicting emotions swirling within. "It's difficult.”
"So," Aaron's gaze shifts toward the majestic mountains as our jeep starts moving, his words directed at me. "This mystery man of yours... You're not going to tell me who he is, are you?"
I shake my head. "There’s no point, not when I’m getting over him."
"Well, even if I don’t know who he is, I know he's an idiot," Aaron remarks, annoyance lacing his tone.
Raising an eyebrow, I turn to look at him, curiosity piqued. "Oh really? And why is that?"
Aaron meets my gaze, sincerity flickering in his eyes. "Because he doesn't realize how amazing you are," he says, his words landing softly between us.
I can't help but smile, finding solace in his oblivious self-critique. "Something funny?" he asks, a playful note in his voice.
"Not really," I reply, the smile lingering as we continue our journey toward the grand yellow stone house that awaits us.
The house stands before us like a regal sanctuary, adorned with white trimmings and large chocolate-brown shutters. Stone pavers lead up to the expansive front entrance, exuding an air of elegance. It's a sight that evokes both awe and anticipation for the days ahead. As we arrive, the staff members scurry around with swift efficiency, retrieving our luggage and attending to every detail.
Edward Saxby, wearing pristine white linen trousers and a shirt, emerges from the house to welcome us. His presence exudes warmth and genuine hospitality. "Welcome to Heaven's Isle," he greets us, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. "Your luggage is being taken to your room, and refreshments are being served out on the terrace. If you follow the path around the back of the property, Cain is waiting for all of you."
We make our way toward the terrace, guided by the path that winds through the enchanting landscape. The beauty of the scenery leaves me in awe, the warm sun casting a golden glow over everything it touches. Upon reaching the terrace, a sense of tranquillity washes over me as I take a glass from one of the waiters, curious about the vibrant drink within.
I hold up the glass. "What is this?"
Aaron glances at me, a playful glint in his eyes. "It's called a Heaven Sunset."
Curiosity piqued, I take a sip of the cocktail, the flavours dancing on my palate. The sweetness intertwines with a subtle spiciness, creating a delightful harmony of taste. It warms me from the inside out, leaving a pleasant tingle in its wake. Truly, even the drinks in this little piece of paradise hold their own charm.
"Like it?" Aaron asks, anticipation lacing his voice.
Edward joins us, adding to the conversation. "The secret lies in the Romalee fruit, found exclusively on Heaven's Isle."
"It's incredible," I remark, captivated by the unique blend of flavours and the refreshing sensation it brings.
Edward's voice carries a mischievous undertone. "Yes, it's rumoured to have some aphrodisiac qualities."
The unexpected information startles me, prompting chuckles from Aaron and Edward.
Edward grins kindly. "No need to be alarmed. It's no more potent than say, oysters or chocolate. Am I to believe the two of you have made the jump from friends to lovers?"
The weight of the word "lovers" hangs in the air, and as Aaron's eyes meet mine, a mixture of warmth and unease courses through me. While I've been consumed by the heartbreak of pretending to be his lover, I haven't fully considered the extent of the deception to those around us. My focus on the emotional turmoil this charade brings has overshadowed the realization that we're not just deceiving Jenna-Lee, but also Aaron's colleagues and superiors.
"It's true," Aaron asserts to Edward, his eyes still locked with mine.
"Well, I daresay it's time. It's obvious you two belong together."
I respond with a polite smile and glance at Aaron, wishing he had arrived at the same conclusion sometime in the past thirteen years.
As I sip on the Heaven Sunset, memories of that transformative summer flood my mind. The carefree days spent diving off cliffs, swimming in the ocean, and basking in the warm sun at Cape Macintyre. The scent of sunscreen, the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs, and the taste of burgers at Fast Jack's linger in my memories. But more than anything, I remember how I began noticing all these new things about my best friend.
Aaron’s good looks had always been undeniable, but suddenly, his smile could take my breath away, and the muscles hidden under his shirts were impossible to ignore. My friend had transformed into a man before my eyes, and I found it hard not to stare every time he stripped down to go swimming. Even more, I noticed how confident he seemed and how just one look from him could make me feel electrified. Every other girl and woman at Cape Macintyre noticed him too, but he never left my side.
We spent every day together, and the summer passed by in the blink of an eye. All too soon, it was time for the Summer Breeze Dance, the season's biggest event at the Cape. One week before the dance, we were at Fast Jack's, discussing the impending event.
"So," Aaron said to me, leaning back in the booth, "Summer Breeze is next week."
"I know. I can't believe how quickly the summer's flown by."
"Me neither. I've never had this much fun," he admitted, grinning.
"It's been pretty fantastic," I agreed.
"I'm glad I came. Magpie Grove would have sucked arse without you."
"Well, I'm glad your dad allowed you to come."
Aaron’s expression darkened. "Like he was sober enough to comprehend what I was asking."
"Well, I'm glad you came anyway."
"Me too."
We shared a moment of silence before he brought up the dance again. “So, the dance…”
"The dance," I echoed.
His eyes held mine, filled with a flicker of nervousness. "There's this really great girl I want to ask, but I'm kind of scared she'll say no."
My heart pounded like crazy, and I found it hard to breathe. It was so unlike Aaron to lose his cool, especially about asking a girl out. Every girl in town would kill to be his date. So who had him all worked up? Was it possible he was talking about me? Was he starting to see me in a different light too? Just thinking about him wanting me as his date sent butterflies into a frenzy in my stomach, and I couldn’t help the grin that spread across my face.
"Whoever she is, I'm sure she'll say yes," I reassured him.
"You think so?" he asked, a playful smile tugging at his lips.
"Definitely," I replied, my heart swelling with joy.
A momentary pause followed, but when he remained silent and simply popped a fry into his mouth, I couldn't resist probing for more information.
"When are you going to ask her?" I inquired, unable to suppress my curiosity.
"Tomorrow," he disclosed. "She works at the Sea Shack every Saturday."
"Joanna Kelly?"
A wave of nausea washed over me as I thought of the flirtatious blonde who had been vying for Aaron's attention all summer.
"Yeah," he confirmed, his face beaming with a mix of delight and uncertainty. Then, his tone turned serious. "I didn't ask. Who are you going with?"
"I... I haven't decided yet," I stammered, my mind racing. The truth was, I had spent every single day with Aaron, creating the illusion that we were already a couple. Other boys assumed I was taken, and I had given them no reason to think otherwise. My focus had been solely on harbouring feelings for my best friend, unaware of how deeply they had grown. The realization struck me like a lightning bolt—our friendship had morphed into something much more significant. But Aaron had never considered the possibility of us attending the dance together. Why would he? We were just friends. It was unreasonable of me to expect anything more.
"There has to be someone you want to go with," he pressed, his eyes searching mine.
I shrugged, my gaze drifting across the room before settling on the first guy I saw. "Maybe Tommy."
In truth, I held no real interest in the waiter at Fast Jack's, but I needed to divert my attention from Aaron. Tommy was decent enough, I reasoned. His tousled dark blond hair and pleasant green eyes had caught my attention before, and he always made an effort to engage in conversation whenever I dined at the restaurant.
"I'm sure he'll ask you," Aaron assured me, his voice filled with genuine care.
"I hope so," I replied, masking the true ache within me.
As it turned out, Tommy did ask me to the dance. I wasn't sure if it was because word got around that Aaron was taking Joanna, or if Aaron had urged Tommy to invite me—it was just the kind of thoughtful gesture Aaron would make.
The evening of the dance arrived, and Aunt Brenna, citing a headache, opted to stay home. With a curfew of 1 am, the four of us walked together, masquerading as double dates. I attempted to convince myself that joining Aaron for the dance as friends would be enjoyable. I simply had to bury these conflicting emotions that plagued me.
The entire town glimmered with lights, exuding a festive atmosphere. Rides, games, and a band set the stage for a lively carnival. While others revelled in the merriment, despite my resolve not to, I found myself wishing I was there as Aaron's true date.
Tommy proved to be a decent dancer, but my attention kept drifting toward Aaron and Joanna. They seemed to be having the time of their lives together, their laughter echoing through the night. Eventually, we swapped partners, and I found myself swaying in Aaron's arms. The band transitioned into a slow song, and Aaron held me closer, sending my heart into overdrive.
"Are you having fun?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.
"Tons," I lied, my heart in turmoil.
"Is Tommy treating you right?" he probed, his protective instincts surfacing.
"Drop the big brother act, Aaron," I playfully retorted, trying to mask my true feelings.
"I'd make a good big brother, don't you think?" he teased.
"You can be quite annoying," I teased back, hiding the depth of my emotions.
"I'll be leaving the dance for a while," he informed me. "Will you be alright with Tommy?"
"Where are you going?" I inquired abruptly.
"Joanna's parents are helping with the dance cleanup. They won't be leaving for a while," he explained.
"You're not coming back with me?" I asked, my voice choked with unspoken longing.
He furrowed his brow. "I'll be home by one."
Joanna wasn't the first girl Aaron had been with, but this time felt different. The pain in my heart was unbearable. I wasn't supposed to feel this way. I didn't want to feel this way. I wished desperately to return to seeing him as the friend he had always been before our summer holiday together.
"That's okay then," I replied, feigning nonchalance, though a part of me crumbled inside.
"You'll be alright?" he asked, his concern genuine.
I nodded, my voice strained. "I wanted some alone time with Tommy anyway."
Aaron released me, and Joanna eagerly enveloped him in her arms. "Ready to go?" she asked, anticipation radiating from her.
"Have a good time," I managed to utter, struggling to suppress the anguish that threatened to consume me.
Have a good time? Idiot! Why couldn't I have found better words to say? The truth was, I wanted nothing more than to be the one in Joanna's place. But it was a dream I couldn't allow myself to entertain.
"We will," Joanna giggled, blissfully oblivious to the turmoil raging within me.
I watched as they departed together, their figures fading into the night. Seeking solace, I retreated to the bathroom, splashing water on my face in a futile attempt to wash away the sting of unrequited love. The realization hit me like a merciless blow—I had fallen deeply in love with my best friend. It was a disaster, an emotional cyclone I couldn't escape.
When I emerged from the bathroom, I feigned a headache and asked Tommy to walk me home. Luckily, Aunt Brenna had retired early, sparing me from answering any probing questions about the dance. As I prepared for bed, sleep eluded me. Instead, I poured my heart into my journal, pouring out the unspoken emotions that weighed heavily upon me.
Aaron returned home minutes before one o'clock, and I secretly hoped he would retire to his room without acknowledging me. However, he knocked on my door, a simple gesture to ensure I had safely returned.
"Come in," I uttered, my voice betraying the ache in my heart.
"Hey." Aaron stepped into my room. I noted his dishevelled hair, the smeared lipstick on his cheek, and the misaligned button on his shirt. Each detail served as a fresh punch to my already aching heart. "Just checking if you got in okay."
"Thanks," I responded, averting my eyes and returning my attention to my journal.
"How was the rest of the dance?" he inquired, genuine concern etched in his voice.
"Really good," I lied, my gaze still fixed on my journal.
"Okay, well I'm off to bed."
"Goodnight," I managed to say, my tone colder than intended.
A pause. "Goodnight, Gabby."
The next day marked our departure from Cape Macintyre.
"You're quiet today," he remarked as we stopped at the store for road trip snacks. "Everything okay?"
"I'm just sad to leave," I managed to reply, masking the torrent of emotions raging within.
"Is that all?" he probed, a hint of concern tugging at his voice.
"Uh-huh," I replied, barely managing a coherent response.
"Are you planning on keeping in touch with Tommy?" he asked, his voice laced with curiosity.
I shook my head, my gaze faltering. "Will you be keeping in touch with Joanna?"
"Nope," he responded, his tone resolute.
"You didn't have a good time?" I asked, attempting to sound casual.
"I had a great time," he confessed.
The words cut through me like a knife. "She doesn't want to see you again?" I mustered, struggling to hide my disappointment.
"No, it's not that," he said, his voice heavy with resignation.
"Then..." I trailed off, desperately searching for answers.
"I'm walking away," he declared, the weight of his words hanging in the air.
"Why? If you had a great time..." I pressed.
"And then what? I start to care about her, and then she's the one walking away from me," he explained, his pain evident.
Finally, I truly looked at him, meeting his gaze for the first time that morning. "This is about your mum, isn't it?"
"She just walked away, Gabby," he admitted, his voice filled with raw emotion. "She left Dad and me as if we meant nothing to her, as if I didn't matter at all."
I placed my hand gently on his arm, offering a comforting squeeze. When it came to his mother, I never knew the right words to say.
"I don't understand why she did that," I confessed softly. "But you can't live your life cutting everyone loose before they have a chance to hurt you, Aaron. That's no way to live. What about us?"
"What about us?" he echoed, his eyes searching mine.
"You care about me, don't you? You're not pushing me away," I implored, my voice laced with vulnerability.
"Yes, but you and I are different, Gab."
"Why is that?" I asked, desperate for clarity.
"You're my best friend, not my girlfriend. Friends don't walk away from each other," he explained, his words resonating deeply.
Sometimes, I find myself contemplating whether friends should walk away from each other. If I had distanced myself from Aaron, would it have spared me the anguish of unrequited love, or would it have only added to my pain? The losses I've experienced in my life have left scars, and having someone like Aaron, who has always been there for me, someone I can trust and who cares for me unconditionally, seemed worth the heartache.
Over the years, though, Aaron and I have only grown even closer, and my feelings for him have remained unwavering. Despite my efforts to date other people, no one has ever stirred the same emotions he does. I consoled myself with the belief that I held a special place in his life and that his apprehensions about relationships were the main obstacle between us. However, witnessing him give Jenna-Lee the kind of relationship I had always yearned for was both excruciating and enlightening. It became clear that Aaron was capable of overcoming his reservations—with the right person.
And that person? Regrettably, it isn't me.