By your Side

Chapter 12

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm glow on the small beachside patio where Lucy, Aiden, and Mason sat around a circular table. The gentle lapping of the waves in the distance mingled with the soft rustle of palm leaves, but the atmosphere was far from serene.

"Lucy," Mason said, his voice tight, "I'm not sure I can accept this."

Aiden shifted uncomfortably in his seat. He had sensed that Mason's reluctance to acknowledge their relationship would be an issue, but he hadn't expected it to surface so quickly. Yet, here they were, baring all under the scrutinizing gaze of Mason.

"Come on, Mason," Lucy protested, her eyes pleading. "Aiden has been there for me like no one else ever has. Can't you see how much we care for each other?"

Mason's jaw clenched as he stared at them both, torn between his loyalty towards his best friend and his overprotective instincts towards his sister. "You know how much I care about you, Lucy, but Aiden -" he sighed, struggling to find the right words. "I just don't want to see you get hurt."

"Look, Mason," Aiden interjected, meeting Mason's gaze with earnest eyes. "I understand your concerns, but I promise you, I would never do anything to hurt Lucy. You know me better than anyone."

Mason looked away, his gaze drawn to the orange-tinted horizon. The three of them sat in tense silence for a few moments, the only sound being the distant laughter of passing beachgoers.

As the afternoon turned into evening, the trio remained on the patio, attempting to engage in light-hearted conversation. Despite the lingering tension, there were moments when Mason couldn't help but notice the genuine affection between Lucy and Aiden. When Lucy recounted a funny story from their childhood and Aiden joined in the laughter, Mason raised an eyebrow. He couldn't deny that their happiness was infectious.

"Remember that time when we tried to build that treehouse together?" Aiden asked, grinning at Lucy.

"Yeah," Lucy replied, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. "We were so determined to finish it before sunset."

Mason couldn't help but smile as well, remembering the carefree days of their youth. It seemed like a lifetime ago. As he observed the easy banter between his sister and best friend, he began to see the undeniable connection they had formed.

The sun had all but disappeared below the horizon when Mason finally spoke up, his voice softer than before. "You two really do have something special, don't you?"

Lucy and Aiden exchanged glances, relief washing over them as they recognized the change in Mason's tone. "Yes, we do," Lucy said, gently laying a hand on Mason's arm. "And I know you're only looking out for me, but I need you to trust me – and trust Aiden."

"Alright," Mason conceded, exhaling deeply. "I still have my reservations, but I can see how much you mean to each other. Just promise me one thing – take care of each other, alright?"

"Of course," Aiden said, reaching out to clasp Mason's shoulder. "Always."

As the last light of day faded away, the three friends shared a tender moment, united in a newfound understanding that would strengthen their bond – and allow Lucy and Aiden's love to flourish.

"Lucy, can you pass the salt?" Mason asked as they sat down for dinner in their cozy family home. The aroma of grilled chicken and roasted vegetables filled the air, while candles flickered on the table.

"Sure," she said, handing it to him with a smile before turning her attention back to Aiden. They were engaged in a lively discussion about a book they'd both read recently, their voices animated and excited. Mason couldn't help but notice how easily Lucy leaned into Aiden's touch when he reached over to brush a stray hair from her face.