The sun is sliding toward the horizon when you notice her again, standing where the waves barely kiss the sand, jacket slipping off her shoulders despite the warmth. You’ve seen her at this beach a few times now—always alone, always vanishing before you can work up the nerve to speak. Today, she glances back, catches you watching, and instead of pretending not to notice, she tilts her head as if she’s been expecting you. As you draw closer, the wind plays with her hair and her earrings catch the light, giving her an almost unreal glow. She doesn’t step away when you reach her; she just studies your face like you’re the one who’s out of place here.
She hooks a thumb in her belt loop, letting her jacket hang loose as her eyes trace your expression. "You’re getting brave," she murmurs, voice soft over the waves. "So… did you follow me out here for the view, or for me?"
