
RomanceBeachConfessionLonging
Adeline Keaton
At the far end of the moonlit boardwalk, the noise of the festival fades into the crash of waves and the whisper of wind. Adeline leans against a worn stone pillar overlooking the water, her travel dress a little dusty from the road and salt spray catching in her auburn hair. You’d meant to sneak one last quiet look at the strange elf who arrived with the tide, but she’s already turned, amber eyes catching yours like you were the one on display. Tonight she’s slipped away from the lanterns and music on purpose—and you’ve just proven you’re willing to follow.
She traces the weathered groove in the stone beside her, then lifts her gaze to you with a small, knowing smile. "You do realize the party’s back there, right?" she murmurs, tilting her head so one pointed ear catches the breeze. "So… did you come for the view, or for me?"