"Holidays"

 "You're gonna love it here," Sam promised, a wide smile spreading across his tanned face.

"It's not what I expected," Ella said, peering out of the car window at the quaint beach town they were driving through.

Sam nodded enthusiastically. "That's the best part. It's like stepping into a postcard."

Ella couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement. The two of them had been planning this road trip for months, eager to escape the city's relentless pace. The overview was simple: a week of relaxation, exploration, and hopefully, a chance to reconnect. They had both needed it.

The ocean air grew thick with the scent of salt and fried dough as they approached the boardwalk. Colorful lights from the amusement park flickered in the distance, casting a warm glow on the small shops and eateries lining the street. The sound of laughter and waves crashing grew louder, mixing with the rhythmic thump of music from hidden speakers.

"Remember, no work emails," Sam reminded her, squeezing her hand gently.

Ella managed a smile. "Deal."

They pulled up to their rented beach house, a charming two-story with white picket fencing and a bright blue door. As they climbed out of the car, the sand beneath their feet was cool and inviting. The moon was a silver sliver in the sky, offering just enough light to make out the shadowy forms of palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze.

Inside, the house was cozy, with wooden floors that creaked comfortingly and walls adorned with seashells and nautical knickknacks. The living room opened up to a balcony overlooking the beach, and beyond it, the vast, dark expanse of the sea.

Ella took a deep breath. The promise of the holiday stretched out before them like an untouched canvas, brimming with potential. Yet, she couldn't shake the feeling that their getaway might hold more than just rest and reconciliation. Something about the quiet whispers of the night air suggested secrets lurked in the shadows of the idyllic scene.