Felix leaned closer, his eyes fixed on hers. Before Aurora could say anything, he gently pressed his lips against hers.
Aurora froze for a brief moment, surprised by the sudden kiss, but soon relaxed and kissed him back.
When they finally pulled apart, they looked at each other in silence.
Felix smiled. "I've been wanting to do that."
Aurora looked away, trying to hide her smile. "You're unbelievable."
He chuckled, and she shook her head, laughing softly.
After a few quiet moments, they sank back down onto the sand, their hands tightly entwined as they stared out at the endless black ocean.
Aurora was the first to break the comfortable silence, her voice filled with quiet wonder. "I feel like I'm dreaming," she said, locking her eyes onto Felix's profile.
He squeezed her hand gently, turning to look back at her. "I know exactly what you mean," he replied, his voice thick with genuine emotion.
"I can't remember the last time I felt this... at peace." He exhaled, smiling.
"Really? I thought you mentioned feeling at peace when you skate." she asked softly.
Felix let out a bittersweet chuckle, looking up at the sky. "I do, especially when I'm skating as a hobby and not for a competition"
"But... this is different, here with you... it's a much more fulfilling kind of peace." he added, rubbing his thumb on the back of her hand .
Aurora smiled, shifting closer so her shoulder brushed against his.
They lay in the sand talking and laughing as the hours wore on.
By the time they finally walked off the beach hand in hand, their hearts were entirely content.
It had been a perfect date.
...
Meanwhile, in a dimly lit office far from the serene coastline.
"Did you arrange for the 'Hawks' to keep an eye on her?" the man asked, his voice cutting coldly through the quiet room.
"Yes, there are some men on guard at her house and others tailing her throughout the day whenever she leaves homes," his subordinate replied submissively, bowing his head.
"Good job."
Provide me with detailed reports of everything that happens throughout her day," he commanded, his tone firm
"Yes, sir," the subordinate murmured, quickly taking his leave and closing the heavy door behind him.
Left alone, the mysterious man walked slowly over to the glass window. He looked out at the vast, bustling lights of the city below.
"Aurora," he murmured to the empty room.
A faint, almost unnoticeable smile crept onto his face.