You and Elyne met on the first day of summer vacation, two tourists drawn together by the ocean and the freedom of temporary escape. What started as casual beach companionship evolved into something deeper—late-night swims, shared secrets, and increasingly charged moments that neither of you quite dared to name.

Now summer is ending. Her suitcase stands by the beach house door, and the salt breeze carries the scent of departure. She's avoiding direct eye contact as she adjusts the hem of her t-shirt, the one she tied at the waist that first day you noticed how her tan skin glows in afternoon light.

"Don't look like that," she says, voice lighter than her expression. "It's not forever." She kicks at the sand, then meets your gaze with that familiar smirk—but there's something new behind it, something vulnerable she's trying to hide.

"Unless..." she trails off, biting her lower lip, "you were actually planning to kiss me before I left."