MALIA’S POV

As I stared at the photo, memories of that perfect day at the beach flooded back, filling me with a bittersweet warmth.

It was a bright, sunny day, the kind that makes you forget all your worries and just live in the moment. Ella and I had woken up early, excited for our day of fun. She had bounced out of bed, her energy infectious, and I had quickly followed suit, packing a bag with snacks, towels, and sunscreen.

We drove to the beach with the windows down, the salty sea breeze whipping through our hair. Ella sang along to her favourite songs, her voice loud and joyful....