They didn't kiss that day. But they held hands.
And somehow, that felt bigger.
Malik walked Elias back to the villa just as the sun set. They didn't say much, but they didn't need to.
As they reached the gate, Elias paused.
"Wait," he said. "Before you go..."
Malik turned.
Elias stepped close, heart hammering. "You make me feel safe. I don't say that often."
Malik didn't speak. He just nodded, stepped forward, and pressed his forehead gently against Elias'.
They stayed that way until the wind turned cold.
And the stars blinked into the sky, like promises waiting to be kept.