Chapter SIXTEEN-CASEY

The sun hangs low, lazy and golden, like it’s in no rush to leave this perfect day behind.

Most of the Crew are stretched out like satisfied cats—some floating in the pool, some lounging on deck chairs, bellies full and smiles soft.

There’s a contentment in the air that feels heavy in the best way. Like gravity has loosened its grip, just a little, and everyone’s just existing in peace.

I’m curled up in one of the oversized loungers, damp towel wrapped around me, the last of the sun-drenched breeze skimming over my arms.

Someone passes around a bowl of grapes and melon, and there’s a tray of empty sandwich plates nearby.

I think I saw Rosie sneak off with the last brownie, which seems like a fair trade for how adorable she is.

The chatter is soft, distant.

Then the women start to move—first Avery, stretching with a groan and patting her bump like it’s a sleepy roommate.

Jez follows her, muttering something about needing lemon for the next batch of iced tea.