Chapter 99. Uneasy Night

Aria’s POV

A few hours later, I find myself staring at the beach entrance, barely believing I agreed to this. Spend the day with him? Who demands a day in return for silence? But if it keeps him quiet, fine. I’ll pretend to enjoy it, put on my best act.

As soon as we step onto the warm sand, I throw my hands up in exaggerated excitement. “Wow, this is amazing!” I turn to him, forcing a bright smile. “How did you know I needed this?” My arms swing out as if I’m embracing the ocean breeze, letting it cool my skin. And okay—maybe I actually do need this. A distraction. A moment to feel normal, even if only for today.

I catch him watching me, his expression softer than I expected. His usual guarded demeanor is gone, replaced by something almost… contemplative. It’s like he’s lost in thought, somewhere else entirely.