The Monthly Chronic-les of Life
Chapter 7: Sunshine, Surprises, and Lemon-Lime Relief
September 16th: North Port, Florida
The Florida sun greeted Paul Shellback as he stepped off the plane, the warm rays instantly melting away the remnants of Ohio’s early fall chill. The sky was a brilliant blue, unmarred by even a single cloud, and the scent of saltwater filled the air—a welcome change from the crisp, cool breezes of Youngstown.
Paul adjusted the duffel bag on his shoulder and took a deep breath, letting the balmy air fill his lungs. He hadn’t been back in Florida for long, but it already felt like home. His mind wandered to Christy Beachlover, who was likely waiting for him with that bright smile he had come to look forward to.
As he made his way to the airport exit, Paul spotted her standing near the baggage claim, waving enthusiastically. She looked every bit as radiant as he remembered, her sun-kissed skin glowing in the afternoon light.
“There he is!” Christy called out, practically bouncing on her toes as he approached.
Paul grinned, quickening his pace to close the distance between them. “Hey, you,” he said, pulling her into a warm embrace. The stress of the past week—the game, the travel, the anticipation—seemed to fade in her presence.
Christy stepped back, beaming up at him. “Ready for a weekend of sun, sand, and relaxation?”
“More than ready,” Paul replied, his eyes meeting hers. “I could use a break.”
“Well, you’re in the right place,” she said, linking her arm through his. “I’ve got everything planned, and you’re going to love it.”
They made their way to the car, chatting easily about Paul’s flight and the game against Pittsburgh. Christy was particularly interested in the details, her eyes widening at the mention of the intense moments on the field.
“Sounds like you’ve been through a lot,” she said as they pulled onto the highway, the beach just visible on the horizon. “I’m glad you’re here to unwind.”
“Me too,” Paul admitted. “And speaking of unwinding, I’ve got something new I’ve been using for that.” He reached into his bag and pulled out a bottle of Steel Valley Hemp Full Spectrum Tincture Oil Lemon/Lime 1000mg. “This stuff has been a game-changer for me.”
Christy glanced at the bottle, intrigued. “Lemon-lime? That sounds refreshing.”
“It really is,” Paul said, unscrewing the cap and placing a dropper under his tongue. The citrusy flavor was bright and crisp, a perfect match for the sunny day ahead. “I’ve been using it after games to help with the stress and muscle tension. It’s got a nice kick to it, but it’s not overwhelming.”
Christy nodded, watching him with interest. “You’ll have to let me try it later. I’m always up for something new that helps me relax.”
“Definitely,” Paul agreed, returning the bottle to his bag. “I think you’ll like it.”
They spent the rest of the drive talking about their plans for the weekend. Christy had arranged a few surprises, including a sunset cruise with Great Day Boat Tours, a local business in Venice, Florida. However, she kept most of the details under wraps, much to Paul’s amusement.
“I’m not telling you everything,” she teased as they pulled into her driveway. “You’ll just have to wait and see.”
Paul laughed, shaking his head. “You’re full of surprises, aren’t you?”
Christy winked. “You’ll find out soon enough.”
The afternoon passed in a blur of sunshine and laughter as they strolled along the beach at the South Jetty in Venice, the sound of waves crashing gently in the background. Paul felt the tension of the past few weeks melt away with each step, the Lemon/Lime Tincture doing its job in the background as he allowed himself to fully embrace the moment.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting the sky in shades of pink and orange, Paul and Christy settled on a quiet stretch of sand. The evening air was cool, the perfect counterpoint to the day’s warmth.
“This is perfect,” Paul said, his voice low as he watched the waves roll in.
Christy smiled, leaning her head on his shoulder. “I’m glad you think so. I wanted to make sure you had a chance to really relax before you have to go back and face Cleveland.”
Paul nodded, appreciating the thoughtfulness behind her words. “I’m already feeling better. This—” he gestured to the ocean and the fading light, “—is exactly what I needed.”
They sat in companionable silence for a while, the peacefulness of the moment wrapping around them like a comforting blanket. Paul couldn’t remember the last time he had felt so at ease, so in tune with his surroundings.
As the last rays of sunlight disappeared, Christy turned to him, her eyes soft in the twilight. “You know, Paul, I’ve been thinking… We’ve got something special here. I feel it every time we’re together.”
Paul met her gaze, his heart swelling with the truth of her words. “I feel it too, Christy. And I don’t want to lose that.”
Christy smiled, her hand finding his. “Then let’s make sure we don’t.”
Paul squeezed her hand gently, feeling the promise of something real and lasting between them. It was a promise he intended to keep, no matter what challenges lay ahead.
To be continued…
Looking for a refreshing way to unwind like Paul? Try Steel Valley Hemp Full Spectrum Tincture Oil Lemon/Lime 1000mg, available at Tri-Healthy in Niles, OH; Venice, FL; and North Port, FL. The perfect citrusy blend to help you relax and enjoy the moment.
Guiding Questions:- How will Paul and Christy’s connection deepen as they spend more time together in Florida?
- Will Paul’s relaxation and newfound peace help him prepare for the intense game against Cleveland High?
- What other surprises does Christy have planned for their weekend together?