The plane touched down, wheels screeching softly against the runway, and the group collectively exhaled. Bali smelled of salt, sun, and the faint promise of adventure.
Junaid was first off the plane, dark hair slightly mussed from the flight, that low, dangerous smirk already in place. His gaze found Simran almost immediately, lingering like he'd memorized the curve of her smile mid-flight.
Alzan bounded out next, loud and chaotic, tugging everyone toward the waiting vans. "This is it! Private villa, secret beaches, sun, fun—Simran, you're gonna die!"
Zain followed silently, cool and collected, steel-grey eyes scanning the scenery, but every so often flicking toward Simran in that quiet, intense way that made her pulse speed up.
Rahil and Mira were already chatting animatedly about the villa and nearby spots, but Simran barely heard them. She was too busy noticing every glance, every almost-touch from the three boys surrounding her.
The van stopped at a sprawling villa overlooking a turquoise bay. Waves crashed softly against the shore, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and a wooden deck wrapped around the infinity pool.
Alzan immediately claimed the lounge area, flopping onto the sunbed with a grin. "This is perfect. Look at this place! Total chaos territory," he said, nudging Simran playfully.
Junaid moved to the balcony, hands resting on the railing, one eyebrow raised. "Sunset view is mine," he murmured, not waiting for her answer. Simran's stomach flipped at the possessive undertone.
Zain chose the room closest to the ocean view, silently ensuring privacy, his posture relaxed but alert. Every so often, his eyes flicked to Simran, a question lingering in their depths