AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I play along, bowing theatrically. “Fear not, Lady Aria, for I am here to assist in this noble quest.”
And so, armed with broomsticks and imaginary shields, we dive into the “cleaning quest.” Aria leads the way, turning mundane tasks into epic battles against imaginary dust monsters. As we scrub and sweep, our laughter fills the air, blending with the rustling leaves and the distant sounds of the neighborhood.
In the midst of our playing, I accidentally knock over a bucket of water, creating a small puddle. Aria’s eyes widen, and she bursts into laughter.
“Well, Sir Cade, it seems our dragon has caused a small flood. No worries, though. We shall conquer this watery challenge!” she declares, grabbing a towel and joining me in our improvised cleanup.
As we work together to dry the puddle, I can’t help but appreciate Aria’s infectious positivity. The mishap becomes just another part of our grand adventure, and in that moment, I realize how fortunate I am to have her as a friend.
With the cleanup complete, we sit inside the playhouse, sharing imaginary tales of our dragon-fueled victory. The sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over our magical kingdom.
“Cade,” Aria says, her tone turning serious, “no matter what happens, whether we’re conquering imaginary challenges or facing real ones, I promise to be there for you. Friends forever, okay?”
I meet her gaze, feeling a profound connection that goes beyond the realms of childhood camaraderie. “Friends forever, Aria.”
As the day comes to an end, we leave the playhouse behind, our hearts filled with the magic of a friendship that weathered imaginary storms and real-life challenges.
***
I find myself smiling at the recollection of our school escapades—the paper airplane attacks, bake sales, and late-night conversations about dreams that seemed distant at the time. As the memories replay in my mind, I can’t help but feel a sense of happiness at the unexpected turn of events.
Coming back here after ten years away was never in my plans. The city has its allure, and I have built a life there that keeps me occupied. However, family obligations call me back from time to time—like my cousin’s impending wedding—to the town that holds pieces of my past.
I decide it’s time to pay a visit to my cousin, Joe, and his family, wanting to catch up and see how the wedding preparations are going. The familiar streets of Sweet Haven guide me towards their house, and a mix of nostalgia and anticipation fills the air.
As I approach the front door, memories of family gatherings flood my mind. It’s been three years since I last stepped foot in this place, and the excitement of seeing everyone again is palpable. The door swings open before I even have a chance to knock, and there stands Joe with a grin that mirrors mine.
“Cade! You’re finally here!” Joe exclaims, pulling me into a bear hug.
“It’s been too long, Joe. How’s everything going?” I reply, returning the hug.
He steps back, studying my face. “You look the same. How’s the city treating you, big shot?”
I chuckle, appreciating the familiar banter. “City life has its charms, but this will always be home. Where’s everyone? I was expecting a full house.”
Joe’s expression changes, a mix of excitement and hesitation. “Well, you’ll find out soon enough. Come on in.”
As I step into the house, I notice the telltale signs of wedding preparations—decorations, floral arrangements, and an air of anticipation. The living room is transformed into a hub of activity, and I can’t help but smile at the buzz of excitement.
“Surprise!” a familiar voice calls out, and I turn to see Rose walking up to Joe with a bright smile.
“Rose? You’re Joe’s fiancée?” I ask, genuinely surprised.
She laughs, nodding. “Guilty as charged. You didn’t know?”
“I’ve been out of the loop for a while, busy at work. Congratulations, you two!” I say, genuinely happy for them.
Joe claps me on the back. “Thanks, Cade. Rose is the one who keeps this ship sailing smoothly.”
Rose chuckles. “Speaking of ships, where’s the rest of the crew?” I ask, looking around.
Joe exchanges a quick glance with Rose before answering, “They’re out for a bit, giving us some space. Wedding planning and all that.”
I raise an eyebrow, curious. “Space? From family? I thought everyone would be here to welcome me.”
Rose smiles, sensing my confusion. “They wanted to give Joe and me some privacy. We’ve been in the thick of wedding preparations, and sometimes, it’s nice to have a quiet moment together.”
I nod, understanding their need for privacy during this hectic time. “Fair enough. So, how’s the wedding planning going?”
