Forbidden Cravings

The reception was in full swing, the dining area alive with the clatter of plates and the warm hum of laughter. Our table felt cozy, the four of us—me, Aeri, Sara, and Daniel—settled in.

The air smelled of buttery rolls and wine, and the faint jazz in the background kept the mood light. Aeri leaned forward, her elbows resting on the table, her eyes sparkling with curiosity as she looked at Sara.

"So, you guys got any big honeymoon plans?" Aeri asked, her voice bright as she propped her chin on one hand, genuinely interested.

Sara’s face lit up, her smile wide and excited. "Oh, yeah! We’re heading to a resort in the Maldives," she said, practically bouncing in her seat. "It’s all booked—white sandy beaches, crystal water, the whole deal. I can’t wait!"

Aeri let out a dreamy sigh, her eyes going wide. "Oh my gosh, the Maldives? That sounds so perfect," she said, leaning back in her chair. "Someday, I’m totally going there. Just imagine, lounging by the ocean, sipping something fruity with a little umbrella in it."

Sara laughed, her short dark hair bouncing as she tilted her head. "You’d love it, Aeri," she said, then grinned mischievously. "You and Ezra should totally go on a trip somewhere, you know. Doesn’t have to be a honeymoon. Just, like, a fun mother-son adventure."

I nearly choked on my mashed potatoes, keeping my eyes glued to my plate as Aeri shot Sara a look, her cheeks turning pink. The idea of us traveling together, just the two of us, sent my mind racing back to our earlier moment in the hallway, and I shoved a bite of steak in my mouth to avoid saying anything stupid.

Daniel, catching the vibe, chuckled and leaned forward. "Hey, why don’t you two just come with us?" he said, his tone easy and inviting. "Plenty of room at the resort, and it’d be fun to have you there."

Sara’s eyes lit up even more, and she reached across the table, grabbing Aeri’s hands. "Yes, Aeri, come on! Join us!" she said, her voice full of excitement. "It’ll be like old times, just with better views and fancier drinks."