The gentle lapping of water against the boat and the distant hum of London life faded into the background as Sarah and Victor found themselves lost in each other's gaze. The world seemed to shrink until it contained only them, the boat, and the shimmering Thames beneath. Sarah felt her heart racing, a mix of excitement and trepidation coursing through her veins.
Victor's eyes, usually so guarded and composed, now held a warmth that made Sarah's breath catch in her throat. She found herself leaning forward almost imperceptibly, drawn by an invisible force. Victor, too, seemed to be inching closer, the oars forgotten in his hands.
The moment stretched, taut with possibility. Sarah's mind whirled with conflicting thoughts - of Emily, of propriety, of the thrill of the forbidden. But all of that faded away as she lost herself in Victor's intense gaze.
