Alaric walked along a sandy path by the beach. The ocean breeze carried that familiar salty scent, mixed with the soft wind brushing against his hair and neck.
Sunlight touched the surface of the sea with a golden glow that shimmered calmly. In the distance, the sound of children's laughter and crashing waves filled the quiet, accompanied by the gentle breeze.
His eyes swept across the beachside area arranged with long wooden tables and benches. Some visitors sat casually, others strolled by, simply enjoying the scene. And among them all... a familiar figure appeared in the corner of his vision.
Kayla.
She was walking toward one of the farthest benches that faced directly out to sea, seemingly about to sit there alone.
Her hair flowed freely, and she held a cold drink in a transparent glass, complete with orange slices and a light blue straw.
"Kayla," Alaric called from behind, clear enough for the girl to hear and turn around.
