The night didn't end at the restaurant. Rafael had one more thing planned.
"Come," he said simply, his hand finding hers again.
Aria didn't question it this time. She followed.
The car stopped near a quiet riverside, far from the noise of the city. The air was cooler here, softer, carrying the faint sound of flowing water.
Aria stepped out, looking around.
"It's… peaceful and beautiful ," she said, her voice almost a whisper.
Rafael watched her more than the view.
"Walk with me."
They moved side by side along the path, their steps slow, unhurried. The river reflected the dim lights from a distance, the surface calm, almost mirror-like.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Their hands brushed once.
Then stayed.
Aria let out a quiet breath. "Tonight doesn't feel real."
Rafael glanced at her. "Why?"
"Because you don't seem like someone who does… this."
A faint smile touched his lips. "You'd be right."
"Then why now?"
He didn't answer immediately.
Instead, he stopped.
