The Summer Plan

Triad of Hearts: Mars

As Hakim and I realized that we had lost the treasure hunt, we decided to head back to the hotel with a mix of disappointment and amusement. Our footsteps echoed through the forest as we made our way back to where the rest of our family had gathered.

When we finally emerged from the trees, we found ourselves back at the clearing where the adventure had begun. My aunts, uncles, and cousins were all there, some holding their own treasures and others sharing tales of their escapades.

I couldn't help but laugh as I approached my family, shaking my head in mock defeat. "Well, it looks like Hakim and I couldn't find the treasure," I announced, trying to sound as disappointed as possible.

James, always the joker of the family, chimed in with a chuckle, "Ah, don't worry, Alfred. Sometimes the real treasure is the memories we make along the way."

Laughter rippled through the group, and my aunts began to share stories of their own adventures in the forest. It was clear that the treasure hunt had brought us all closer together, regardless of whether or not we had found the elusive prize.

Hadiya, ever the optimist, piped up, "And who needs a treasure when we have each other?"

My family nodded in agreement, and I couldn't help but smile. Hakim, standing beside me, added with a playful grin, "That's right. The real treasure is right here."

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The next day...

The sun grew up the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the city of love. As I stood on the rooftop of our hotel, gazing at the breathtaking view of Paris, a sense of clarity washed over me.

Hakim, Adil, and Mars had all captured my heart in their own unique ways, but it was Mars who held the key to my happiness. His playful spirit, unwavering support, and magnetic charm had slowly but surely drawn me in.

I took a deep breath, my heart pounding with anticipation. It was time to follow my heart, to pursue the love that felt right, to make a choice that would change the course of our summer vacation.

I descended the staircase, my footsteps echoing in the dimly lit hallway. And there he was, Mars, standing by the hotel bar, a glass of water in hand.

I looked at him, at a way I've never looked at him before. Seeing him, sitting there made me realize that I knew who it was.

Mars.

As I approached him, I could feel the weight of my decision, the gravity of my confession. I took a moment to collect my thoughts, then finally, I spoke from the depths of my heart.

"Mars," I began, my voice steady but filled with emotion. "There's something I need to tell you. Something that's been on my mind for a while now."

Mars turned to me, his eyes locking onto mine, his gaze intense yet tender. "What is it?" he asked, concern and curiosity etched on his face.

I took his hand in mine, our fingers intertwining as I searched for the right words. "I've realized that you're the one I want, Mars. You're the one who's captured my heart in ways I never expected. Your laughter, your warmth, your spirit—it all fills my life with joy."

A smile spread across Mars' face, a mixture of relief and happiness. "Alfred," he whispered, his voice filled with affection, "I've been waiting to hear those words."
He took my hand and ran outside leading me to whereever he wanted.

The moonlight danced on the gentle waves as Mars and I walked hand in hand along the deserted beach. The cool breeze ruffled our hair, and the sound of the ocean provided a soothing backdrop to our intimate moment.