Destined for Love: The Huntington Brothers, #1

By Sara McClaflin

Destiny and Miles shared a love that transcended time and place. Destiny met Miles when she was just a child, and he became her everything. But life had other plans, tearing them apart when she moved away.

Years passed, and the ache of Miles' unfulfilled childhood crush remained a distant memory. Miles, now a successful entrepreneur running a cutting-edge security technology business.

For Destiny, this unexpected reunion was a glimmer of hope, a chance at rekindling the love she had never quite forgotten. Miles, on the other hand, knew Destiny like no one else. He had fallen in love with her in the rain, on the beach, and in a field of flowers, their shared moments etched in his heart.

In this tale of lost love, second chances, and the enduring power of fate, will Miles and Destiny find their way back to each other, or will the echoes of the past and the shadows of the present keep them forever separated?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sara McClaflin
• Release date: Dec 31, 2023
• ISBN: 9798224295012

Book preview

Prologue

Five-year-old Destiny walked into her kindergarten class, her small hands clutching the straps of her pink backpack adorned with flowers. She wore her new light blue dress with white polka dots, her curly brown hair was pulled back with a matching blue ribbon. Destiny's hazel eyes darted around the room, taking in the vibrant colors and paintings that decorated the walls. Her heart raced as she looked for an empty chair, her nerves getting the best of her.

Daddy said it'll be fun, Destiny whispered to herself, trying to muster up some courage. She spotted a little girl in the corner, looking like an angelic princess with her frilly multi-colored dress and sparkling jewelry. The other children gazed at her with awe as she showed off her expensive, fancy clothing. Destiny couldn't help but stare, feeling out of place in her simple dress.

Hey! A gentle tap on her shoulder caught Destiny's attention. She turned to see another five-year-old girl standing there with short black hair framing her round face, glasses over her bright blue eyes and a bright yellow t-shirt with a smiling sun on it. Can I sit next to you? she asked, pointing to the empty spot beside Destiny.

Sure! Destiny replied, her nervousness fading slightly as the girl sat down next to her and followed Destiny’s gaze toward the girl in the corner.

That's Candy Sullivan, the girl in the yellow shirt said, rolling her eyes. "She thinks she's so special because all her stuff is fancy."

Destiny gave the girl a small smile in appreciation. I'm Destiny, she introduced herself, holding out her hand.

Hi Destiny! I'm Lila. Lila shook her hand with enthusiasm, and Destiny couldn't help but let her smile grow.

As they continued talking, a boy approached their desks. His brown hair was neatly combed, and his green eyes sparkled with curiosity. He wore a red polo shirt and khaki shorts, making him look like a miniature golfer.

Hi, I'm Miles. Can I sit with you? he asked, gesturing to the chair on the other side of Destiny.

Of course! Destiny replied, happy to have another friend join their group.

Hi, Miles! I'm Lila, and this is Destiny, Lila took the lead, while Destiny quietly took everything in. The three of them chatted, discussing their favorite cartoons and what they hoped to learn in kindergarten. Destiny felt her anxiety melt away as she found herself surrounded by new friends.

Alright, class! The teacher clapped her hands, getting everyone's attention. Let's get started!

As the chatter around them died down, Destiny glanced at Lila and Miles, and grinned ear to ear at her two new friends. Her worries transformed into enthusiasm for the most amazing journey!

She knew that together, they could face anything kindergarten would bring their way.

THE SUN SHONE BRIGHTLY on the last day of eighth grade, casting a warm glow over the schoolyard as Destiny, Lila, and Miles excitedly gathered their belongings and left the building. The air buzzed with anticipation for the upcoming summer and high school adventures that awaited them.

Guys, can you believe it? We're finally going to be in high school! Destiny exclaimed, her blue eyes sparkling.

I know! I can't wait to try out for the debate team, Lila added, adjusting her glasses. What about you, Destiny? Any clubs or activities you're planning on joining?

Definitely drama club. And maybe even the cooking club if I have time, Destiny replied, already envisioning herself performing on stage and experimenting with new recipes.

Miles leaned over to say, I'm thinking of trying out for the football team. High school's going to be amazing. He sighed out, smiling at the thought.

Absolutely! Lila agreed. But first, we have an entire summer break ahead of us. What are your plans?

Nothing special. Just spending time with my dad and maybe volunteering at the soup kitchen, Destiny said. Her father had fostered a sense of community in her. They spent most holidays working in soup kitchens, making sure to donate to every food drive, and helping anyone that they knew was in need. The family made teddy bear blankets for children who were in the hospital, baked bread for the men at the local jail, and organized food drives to help poverty-stricken families get through the harsh winter weather. They took care of their neighbors as if they were part of their own family.

That sounds great, Lila smiled. They said their goodbyes, and Destiny made her way home. Her excitement at the prospect of joining clubs and going to dances with her favorite people was palpable.

Destiny trekked up the driveway to the house she'd grown up in, and took in the sight of it aging but still standing. She had to smile at the dandelions that had pushed their way through the cracks in the pavement. It was definitely time for a replacement, but at least the flowers were blooming. The pale yellow flowers contrasted with the white trim her dad had added last year. As Destiny stepped up the steps, worn down from years of her and her friends running up and down them, she opened the door—a reminder that this summer they would paint it anew. Comfort washed over her.

Upon entering her house, she was greeted by the familiar scent of her father's cooking. She found him in the kitchen, stirring a pot of homemade spaghetti sauce. Destiny hugged him tightly, her excitement still bubbling inside her.

Hey, kiddo her father said, returning her embrace. Remember when I told you I was looking for a new job?

Destiny nodded, her heart suddenly heavy with concern. Yeah, Dad. Did you find one?

Her father hesitated before answering, Yes. But there's a catch, Destiny. It's a few hours away, and we're going to have to move.

Move?! What about high school? she asked, her eyes widening in shock.

I'm so sorry, honey. This was the only job I could find, and the pay is really good. I know it's hard, but we need this. He looked at her with apologetic eyes, and Destiny knew he was right.

Okay, Dad, she sighed, understanding the situation. I'll tell Miles and Lila.

That evening, after inviting her friends over, Destiny broke the news to them on her living room couch. Their faces fell, they embraced her tightly and assured her that their friendship would remain strong.

Promise me we'll always stay friends, Miles implored, his green eyes shining with determination.

Always, Destiny whispered, holding back tears and linking pinkies.

A week later, Destiny found herself surrounded by boxes in her bedroom. The walls, once adorned with posters and memories, now stood bare and empty. With each box she taped shut, the room became more and more unrecognizable. Finally, her father knocked on the doorframe, asking softly, Are you ready?

Taking a deep breath, she closed her bedroom door for the last time and followed her father out of the house. The once-cozy home now felt vacant, stripped of all the cherished memories that had filled it.

As they drove through the familiar town, Destiny watched the streets pass by one last time. They drove past Peaches, the local café where she had spent countless afternoons laughing, studying and planning for the future with her friends. Her phone chimed, and she glanced down to see a text from Miles, a picture of the three of them smiling under the big oak tree nestled in the middle of the park. It had been there for generations, a symbol of history and tradition just like the town itself.

MILES: BEST FRIENDS forever

LILA SENT A HEART EMOJI, and Destiny's eyes welled up with tears. Clutching her phone tightly to her chest, she knew she was leaving behind a significant chapter of her life. But as they drove further away from the town, she realized that this move would open the door to new beginnings and exciting opportunities. Filled with both anticipation and trepidation, Destiny looked forward to the future, knowing that the bond she shared with her friends could withstand any distance.

NOW SETTLED INTO HER new town, 14-year-old Destiny had started high school two months ago. As Halloween approached, she missed the familiar traditions and excitement that came with celebrating the holiday with her old friends. Wanting to keep the connection alive, she sent a message to Lila and Miles, asking what they were going to be for Halloween.

Lila: I don’t know, girl! Whatever it is, it has to be cute! You?

3:30 P.M.

Destiny: I’m at a loss. I wish I was with you guys. Can you imagine how fun it would be?!

3:32 P.M.

Lila: I know right?! I wish you could come to the Halloween party with us!

3:35 P.M.

Destiny: What party?

3:38 P.M.

Lila: Just the one the school has!

3:40 P.M.

Destiny: Cool! Miles, what are you going to be?

3:45 P.M.

Lila: Miles?! Destiny is asking what you’re dressing up as??

4:15 P.M.

Miles: idk. Don’t really care.

5:30 P.M.

Destiny: Ok then. Miles? You ok?

5:35 P.M.

Miles: ya I’m cool.

7:00 P.M.

Destiny couldn't shake the feeling that he was pulling away from her. She didn't know why, and it hurt more than she could express.

As Halloween rolled around, the cool fall day brought with it a sense of nostalgia. Destiny returned home from school after a surprisingly great day, eager to share her experiences with Lila. When Lila mentioned there was a Halloween party happening at their old school, Destiny's heart ached. She called Lila and asked if she had heard from Miles, hoping for some reassurance.

Um, not really, Lila hesitated, clearly uncomfortable. He's been hanging out with the football and cheerleading crowd lately.

Disappointed but determined to maintain their friendship, Destiny decided to send Miles a Happy Halloween message anyway. Two hours later, her phone buzzed with a response. It was a photo of Miles and Candy, dressed as Barbie and Ken. Their poses were flirtatious, with Candy clinging to Miles' arm and batting her eyelashes while he grinned.

Miles: Best friends forever! Happy Halloween!

The generic tone stung, making Destiny feel like just another name on a list of people who received the same text.

It hit Destiny like a ton of bricks when she realized that Miles had effortlessly replaced her and found comfort with someone who used to be her biggest bully. Candy always acted friendly towards him, but only when Destiny wasn't present. Miles never saw it. He never understood why she wanted nothing to do with Candy.

The pain was unbearable, and she knew she needed to move forward and focus on her own life without Miles. With a heavy heart, she poured her emotions into a goodbye message, hitting 'send' as tears streamed down her face. She then blocked his number, taking the first step towards healing and embracing the future without one of her two best friends.

Chapter One

Miles Huntington strolled into the lobby of Vortex, his technology-based security company. The entrance was sleek and modern, with glass walls and polished concrete floors. A ten-foot-tall waterfall cascaded down one wall, adding an air of serenity to the bustling office. Employees hurried past, their fingers tapping away at the screens of their tablets as they talked into their earpieces. Despite being located in a smaller town, Vortex had earned a reputation for being an innovative and well-respected business in the area.

Morning, Miles! called out Mara, the cheerful receptionist, from behind her desk. Her bright red hair stood out against the minimalist décor.

Good morning, Mara, he replied with a warm smile. He always made it a point to greet everyone by name.

As Miles walked through the lobby, he exchanged friendly nods and greetings with several staff members before stepping into the executive office area. He spotted Vivienne, his brother Max's wife, standing near Candy's desk, discussing something with her. Vivienne's warm smile and sparkling eyes radiated kindness and intelligence, drawing people in like a magnet. On the other hand, Candy exuded an air of superiority with her raised chin and haughty gaze. It was as if she believed herself to be above everyone else, looking down on them from her ivory tower.

He gave Candy and Vivienne a smile and quick good morning as he walked towards his office door.

Mile's office was decorated with rich, dark wood furniture and deep leather chairs that exuded an aura of timeless elegance. The walls were adorned with an impressive array of achievements and awards, meticulously arranged in chronological order. Each framed certificate, diploma, and plaque represented significant milestones in his career and life journey.

Prominently displayed was a framed citation for a prestigious humanitarian award, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact on the world beyond his financial success. The office bookshelves were lined with leather-bound volumes and well-worn classics. A globe sat atop an antique wooden pedestal.

Miles settled into his chair, powering up his computer. Before he had a chance to immerse himself in his work, the phone on his desk rang. He picked it up and saw that it was his mother, Caroline.

Here we go, he muttered under his breath before answering with an exasperated sigh. Hello, Mother.

Darling, I'm so glad I caught you, Caroline cooed, her voice oozing insincerity. I was just calling to remind you about the family dinner tonight. You know how important it is for us all to be there, especially with Lawrence attending.

Miles rolled his eyes but kept his voice even. The last thing he wanted to do was sit through a family dinner with husband number seven. Yes, Mother, I'll be there.

Good, she replied, her tone turning passive-aggressive. And if Vivienne is coming, perhaps you should at least invite Candy, too. You know how much she admires you.

Not happening, he said curtly, eager to end the conversation. Remember the last time she came? You just tried to push us together and made everyone uncomfortable, Miles huffed out. I'll see you tonight. Goodbye, Mother. He hung up before she could respond, a sigh of relief escaping him.

Miles put his head in his hands, trying to shake off the frustration that came with every conversation with his mother. He heard a knock on the door and looked up to see Max, his older brother, standing there. Max was tall, with brown hair and green eyes that seemed to sparkle with wisdom. He had an air of confidence that made him a natural-born leader.

Max walked into the office and sat down, greeting his younger brother with a casual Hey. He couldn't help but notice the look on his face—it seemed like he had just received some unpleasant news. Max's grin grew wider as he playfully posed, finger to his chin. Let me guess, he said teasingly. Mother dearest just called? So... are you going tonight?

Miles sighed and looked up at a grinning Max. You know how she is. If I don’t go, she’ll just make your lives miserable.

At that moment, Malcolm walked up, leaning on the door jamb, his messy brown hair sticking up in every direction as if he had just rolled out of bed. Despite his disheveled appearance, Malcolm was sharp-witted and quick on his feet, making him an invaluable asset to Vortex.

Malcolm sauntered in Miles’ office, a smirk playing on his lips. He plopped down into an armchair, propping his feet up on Miles' desk with exaggerated casualness. Ah, yes, he drawled, the family dinner with stepfather-to-be number seven, Lawrence. Can't wait. His voice was heavy with sarcasm.

Exactly, Miles agreed, chuckling despite himself. Anyway, we have work to do. What's new on the client front, Malcolm?

Actually, Malcolm said, his eyes lighting up, I've been thinking about a way to streamline the client approval process. I think if we can automate some steps, we could cut down on the time it takes to onboard new clients while still maintaining our high standards.

Interesting, Miles said, leaning forward in his chair. Tell me more.

As they dove into the details, Miles could feel his mood lifting. This was what he loved most about his job – brainstorming solutions to problems and working with his brothers to make Vortex even better.

Suddenly, Malcolm stopped mid-sentence and clutched his stomach dramatically. Ugh, I am starving, he groaned.

Max chuckled and rolled his eyes. You're always starving, Malcolm.

Hey, I'm a growing boy. I need fuel, Malcolm retorted, grinning.

Speaking of fuel, Max suggested, why don't we grab some lunch from Peaches? It's been ages since we've been there.

Miles hesitated for a moment, memories of the cozy little café flooding back to him. He used to go there all the time with his childhood friends. Lately, he'd fallen into the habit of going to a local hotspot with Candy instead. But the thought of Peaches and its warm atmosphere was tempting.

Sounds good, Miles agreed, a small smile playing on his lips. Let's head over.

As the three brothers left the office and made their way to Peaches, Miles couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nostalgia.

THE MOMENT MILES STEPPED into Peaches Café, the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked bread and coffee enveloped him. He could hear the soft hum of conversation around him, punctuated by the occasional clink of silverware against plates. The cozy atmosphere was a far cry from the sleek modernity of Vortex's office, and he felt an inexplicable sense of comfort wash over him.

Ah, if it isn't the Huntington brothers, Lila said, greeting them with a wide grin from behind the counter. Her dark hair was pulled back in a loose ponytail, and her bright eyes sparkled with mischief. It's been too long, Miles.

Definitely too long, he agreed, smiling back as he took in the familiar surroundings – the mismatched chairs, the chalkboard menu, and the colorful artwork on the walls.

What can I get you guys? Lila asked, pulling out her notepad and pen.

Turkey club for me, please, Max ordered. Miles watched as Malcolm hovered his eyes over the chalk menu board.

Mmmmm. What do you recommend, Lila? He gave her a flirtatious smirk. Malcolm never hesitated to flirt with Lila, even while they were kids.

Lila laughed with a sparkle in her eyes, saying, Why don’t you just get the tuna melt? You know it’s your favorite.

After a moment's hesitation, Miles decided on the turkey and avocado sandwich—his go to quick fix meal.

As Lila rang in their order, Miles looked around the cafe—faded yellow walls, mismatched tables and chairs, and the same framed photographs of local artists hanging by the register. Time had been frozen inside these four walls, not much had changed since his last visit.

The swinging of the kitchen door caught his eye. He snapped his gaze over and met a familiar set of hazel eyes that he never thought he’d see again.

Lila. His voice cracked, while interrupting something that she was saying. He tried to look away, but his eyes were glued to the now closed door.

Yes? Lila asked after he paused for a moment too long.

Is that...? He froze, an image of her sitting across the table from him at school all those years ago flashed through his mind.

Destiny Evans? Lila hesitated before nodding. Yeah... she just moved back. About a month ago.

Miles' heart raced as memories came flooding back—Destiny weaving daisy crowns in the park, the two of them racing up oak trees, her laughter ringing through the air like wind chimes. It was as though his past had caught up to him, wrapping its tendrils around his heart and refusing to let go.

Earth to Miles, Lila's voice snapped him back to the present. He blinked and looked at her, his expression a mixture of surprise and confusion.

Thank you, Miles mumbled, taking the bag and turning to leave the café, his mind reeling from the encounter. Max and Malcolm exchanged glances before following their brother outside.

Hey, what's wrong? Max asked as they caught up with him. You look like you've seen a ghost.

I feel like it. Miles said, turning away, thinking about the day he received the last message he would get from Destiny.

DESTINY: HEY MILES, I just wanted to say thank you for everything you've done for me, but it's time for me to move on. Take care of yourself, okay? Goodbye.

Miles' heart shattered into a million pieces as he read Destiny's message. The words were like poison, seeping into his soul and leaving him feeling hollow inside. In a fit of anger and despair, he hurled his phone across the room, watching it collide with the wall and fall to the floor, its screen spider-webbed with cracks.

Damn it! He cursed under his breath, the weight of regret sinking in almost instantly.

The next day, the memory of the message still clung to him like a thorn in his heart. He shuffled through the halls of the school, lost in thought, until the sound of laughter caught his attention. He glanced over to see Lila by her locker, surrounded by members of the dance team. Their eyes sparkled with amusement as they chatted and giggled, their shared camaraderie evident in their smiles and body language.

Hey, Lila, he called out, lifting his hand in a small wave.

Lila's head snapped in his direction, her eyes growing wide with shock. It was as if she couldn't understand why he was talking to her. That's when it hit him—they hadn't spoken face-to-face in months.

Miles took a deep breath, preparing himself to try and rekindle his friendship. He knew it was long overdue. As he stepped towards her, a flash of blonde hair caught his eye and Candy appeared in front of him, her eyes locked onto his.

Hey, Miles, she purred, her perfectly crafted outfit making her look like she'd just stepped off a runway.

Uh, hey, Candy, he replied, distracted as he watched Lila's eyes narrow in annoyance before she turned and walked away.

Is everything okay? Candy asked, concerned. You look like you've got something on your mind.

Miles hesitated for a moment, unsure if he wanted to talk about Destiny's text. But Candy has been there for him lately so it couldn't hurt. It's Destiny, he said finally, his voice cracking with the pain of the situation. She sent me a message saying she doesn't want to be friends anymore.

Candy's expression shifted ever so slightly, her eyes betraying a flicker of something, maybe satisfaction, before she quickly masked it. Miles shook the feeling off thinking he was just seeing things. Well then, she's missing out, she declared, looping her arm through his and pulling him towards their classroom. Come on, Miles. Let's get to class so we can sit next to each other.

As they walked, Miles couldn't help but replay Lila's irritated expression in his mind. He was starting to regret not talking to her earlier and letting Candy steal his attention. Yet, he couldn't deny that Candy's presence was a welcome distraction from the heartache caused by Destiny.

Thanks, Candy, he murmured, trying to sound more grateful than he felt. I appreciate it.

Of course, she replied sweetly, giving his arm a reassuring squeeze. That's what friends are for, right?

Miles nodded, but his thoughts were still with Destiny. He knew he had to find a way to mend things with her, but his hurt at her actions set in and the thought that maybe, life just went on.

Right, he agreed half-heartedly, his heart heavy with the finality of the whole situation. Friends.

MALCOLM LOOKED AT MILES, shaking him out of his memories. It's been a long time since you've seen Destiny, Malcolm said. Maybe you should go ahead and ask her why she sent the message if talking with her is something that still means so much to you.

Miles nodded his head in agreement.

As they walked back to the office, Miles couldn't shake the feeling that Destiny's sudden reappearance was more than just a coincidence. Somewhere deep down, he knew there had to be a reason.

Chapter Two

The lunchtime rush at the cafe was in full swing, and Destiny’s hands moved with practiced skill as she deftly packed up to-go orders. Beads of sweat dotted her brow, but she didn't mind—there was something satisfying about conquering a busy shift. The hustle and bustle in the kitchen felt like a well-choreographed dance, with her and the other employees weaving through one another, exchanging quick smiles and the occasional joke as they worked.

Order up! called out Chef Martin from behind the stove, and Destiny sprang into action, gathering the delicious-smelling sandwiches and placing them neatly in a brown paper bag.

Okay, these are for Max, Malcolm, and... Her voice trailed off as she read the third name scribbled on the sandwich wrapper. Miles? She blinked, feeling a sudden tightness in her chest. It wasn't the same Miles Huntington, was it? No, it wasn't. It was not the same Miles Huntington. Was not.

I mean