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“Well, that’s okay. Other than fixing your doorknob, do you have any plans for the day?”
Emma shifted the car keys in her hand. “Just picking up my grandfather later.”
Luke glanced toward the horizon, where the cerulean blue of the sea met the sky. A gentle breeze ruffled his hair, carrying the scent of salt and freedom. “Well, how about going for a walk?” He pointed vaguely in the direction of the ocean. “I haven’t seen much of the beach yet. Maybe we can grab a bite afterward?”
“I’m down for that. There’s a secret spot that the tourists don’t know about—I could show you,” Emma responded, a playful glint in her eyes.
A grin unfolded on Luke’s face. “Let’s do it. Lead the way.”
13
Emma
With Luke by her side, Emma felt her heart race as they stepped onto the street. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore accompanied them as their footsteps echoed on the pavement on their way down to the beach.
As Emma spent time with Luke, she found herself drawn to his easygoing nature, his thoughtfulness, and his genuine kindness. He was a breath of fresh air, and she felt comfortable around him in a way she hadn’t with Chad.
Continuing down the boardwalk, Emma confided in Luke, giving him advice about Jeremiah, and he listened attentively, showing a level of care and understanding that touched her heart.
Although Luke’s warmth and sincerity were disarming, memories of her failed marriage still lingered, reminding her of the façade that some men put on in the early stages of a relationship, only to reveal their true colors later. Emma was no stranger to ignoring red flags in the past. She had hoped Chad would change, so she’d turned a blind eye to the warning signs, only to end up where she was now.
Was she setting herself up for heartbreak again?
Lost in her thoughts, she was pulled back to reality by the familiar scent of the sea and the sounds of the lively beachfront.
The smell of fried food drifted toward them from a nearby food truck as they approached the beach entrance.
“Is there anything vegan here for you?” Luke asked, scanning the menu.
Emma smiled, touched by his consideration. “I usually go for the boardwalk fries. I haven’t had them in almost a year.”
Luke turned to the cashier. “Can we get your largest size of boardwalk fries?”
“Coming right up!” The man behind the window smiled as he took Luke’s payment.
Emma let out an amused chuckle that hung in the air. It was the sound of someone who had been through this before and knew what to expect.
Luke looked at her, his brows knit together. “What?”
“That’s what.” Emma raised her arm, pointing ahead.
Luke’s eyes widened as he turned back to the vendor. He had accidentally ordered the jumbo size, which was enormous—roughly equivalent to a quart of fries doused in vinegar and salt.
“Well, I hope you’re hungry,” Luke said.
Emma picked up a piping-hot fry and examined it before taking a cautious bite. “These are perfect.”
As they stepped onto the sandy shore, Emma took the lead, moving in the opposite direction of the beachgoers frolicking in the water and lounging under the sun.
She noticed the curiosity in Luke’s eyes.
“Where are we going?” he asked.
Emma flashed a mischievous grin. “Just keep following me. I promise it’ll be worth your while.” Leading him to a stone wall, she slipped behind one of the larger rocks.
Luke trailed behind her, peering over her shoulder. “Wow! This is incredible.”
“Wait until you see where it leads,” Emma teased with a smile. “Come on.”
