ARIA’s POV

As I walked towards Carter, I couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over me. The warm sun on my skin and the serene lake scene before me were a balm to my frazzled nerves. I sat down beside Carter, our shoulders almost touching.

 He didn't turn to me, but I could sense his awareness of my presence. I followed his gaze out to the lake, watching as a fish broke the surface, causing ripples to spread out across the water.

 "What brings you here?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. I wasn't sure why I was whispering, except that the silence seemed too...