The morning sun poured through the windows of the seaside villa.
Clara was standing on the balcony, holding a cup of coffee, when Arthur appeared behind her.
"You're awake early."
She turned.
"Someone has to make sure you don't sleep until noon."
Arthur glanced at the clock.
"It's barely eight."
"Exactly."
He wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his chin on her shoulder.
"We're on vacation. There are no meetings, no investigations, and no urgent family matters."
Clara smiled.
"Are you trying to convince me or yourself?"
"Both."
She laughed and leaned against him.
Beyond the balcony, the ocean stretched endlessly beneath the clear blue sky.
For once, the world seemed wonderfully uncomplicated.
"What's the plan today?" she asked.
Arthur kissed her cheek.
"Breakfast, a walk along the beach, lunch somewhere nice, and absolutely nothing involving paperwork."
"That sounds perfect."
"Then I suggest you finish your coffee."
"Why?"
