Maya's POV
The smoky aroma drifting from my parents' backyard grill instantly transported me to childhood summers when these family gatherings were the highlight of every weekend.
Nothing had changed much, except now Sebastian occupied one of those weathered plastic lawn chairs beside Dad, absorbing every word of his endless barbecue wisdom with genuine interest.
The sight was almost surreal—watching this man who typically navigated corporate boardrooms and exclusive galas look completely comfortable in our humble backyard setting. He wore a simple polo and jeans, cold beer balanced on his knee.
He belonged here as naturally as if he'd grown up next door. Dad had appointed Sebastian his official barbecue apprentice, which really meant subjecting him to a constant stream of cooking tips and childhood stories about me.
