655: NEW SURROUNDINGS

ARIEL'S POV My face flushed with heat as I rushed down the hallway, the image of Tessa and Jack seared into my mind. I couldn't believe I had just walked in on them like that! So much for giving them a heads up about our departure. "Note to self," I muttered under my breath, "always knock before entering." I clattered down the stairs, trying to shake off the embarrassment that clung to me like a wet blanket. The last thing I wanted was to make Tessa feel uncomfortable, and it was clear they were having a moment – well, more than a moment. As I reached the front door, I couldn't help but snicker at the absurdity of the situation. Of all the times to accidentally barge in on her, it had to be now, when Janice and I were about to embark on our own little adventure. Stepping outside, I inhaled deeply, the cool morning air a welcome distraction from the heat still lingering on my face. I glanced around, spotting Janice waiting in the car, her nose buried in a book. "Everything okay,