Eilika and Damian sat side by side on the wooden dock that stretched over the lake, their fingers loosely intertwined.
Their bare feet rested in the water below, stirring gentle ripples across the surface that caught the shimmering late-morning sunlight. A wide-brimmed white lace hat shaded Eilika's face from the stronger rays overhead, while the quiet surroundings made the entire afternoon feel pleasantly removed from the rest of the world.
"Are we not expected back at the cottage?" Eilika asked softly, glancing toward him.
"You seem to have forgotten that today is not a workday," Damian replied, a faint smile touching his lips. "I had intended to return with you, but this place is far too peaceful. Away from all the noise, I find that I am in no hurry to leave."
