Must Hate The PLAYBOY! (PUBLISHED)

A ray of sunlight flashed through my closed eyes, pulling me from sleep. I let out a small yawn, rubbing my eyes with the back of my hand before opening them fully. Another beautiful day.

It’s been a week since summer started, and I’m genuinely excited. East Hampton never disappoints; it’s a must-visit for New Yorkers. Usually, my best friend, Chloe, and I spend our summers here with Nathan, but this year, he’s not around. I haven't seen him in months, not even at graduation. Chloe said he was taking online lessons to get his diploma.

A lot has changed recently, and things aren’t the same. But at least I still have Chloe. I glanced over at the other bed, where she was still sleeping soundly. We’re at her grandmother's vacation house, a spacious and classy place with a huge pool and garden. It’s always so relaxing here.

Chloe. She’s been my rock, always there, even through the darkest days. She never left. She’s supportive and a great listener. After that whole mess, I thought she’d never understand, but she proved me wrong. Sometimes I feel guilty for even thinking of abandoning our friendship. I was selfish, never considering her side.

Now, knowing her true feelings, I finally understand why she acted the way she did. It taught me that true friends should be transparent, no secrets, no lies. That’s how a friendship grows stronger.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” she mumbled, yawning. I jumped, realizing she was awake.