Creating Memories

Chapter Seven

A/N: The update is finally here, and I apologize for the delay again. Just an update about me (if you're curious) The event went really well, and now I'm back to working on the story. I'm thinking of expanding this story to 20-22 chapters, but it might go a bit longer based on the draft and timeline. It's been a busy week, but I'll do my best to post another update this Saturday. Anyway, fingers crossed for Friday because I'm trying to snag my desired seat for Biu's FM in Manila. If you're Filipino and attending, hope to see you there! Wish me luck! Enjoy this chapter!

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The sun was barely peeking over the horizon when Pete roused from his slumber. After the dinner last night with Vegas, Nop, and the rest of the bodyguards, Vegas had ordered everyone to rest up for a day of exploring the town. The thought of wandering around the unfamiliar place later made Pete eager to start the day.

In the quiet dawn, Pete found himself up and about, a routine he attributed to his daughter, Seoul, who had a knack for early morning disturbances by kicking him. Changing into a comfortable shirt and shorts, he slipped on flip-flops, ready for a tranquil walk along the beach. A cap adorned his head as he stepped outside into the predawn darkness.

The sea whispered serenity and a gentle breeze played with his senses. Memories of strolls on an island with Som and Venice flooded Pete's mind. He used to wake early for a walk, returning to breakfast prepared by Som, his late wife. A wistful smile graced Pete's face as he strolled along the sandy shore.

Amidst the tranquil scene, Pete spotted a figure jogging toward him in the distance. His instincts kicked in, but as the man drew nearer, Pete recognized Vegas, clad in a black muscle shirt and revealing shorts, his bare feet pounding the sand. Vegas waved, and Pete instinctively reciprocated. Vegas approaches him and halts a few feet away from him.

"Good morning, Vegas. Going for a jog?" Pete asks.

Vegas nods at him. "Good morning, Pete. Yeah, just a quick jog,"

"Why are you going for a run here when there's a fully equipped gym inside?"

Vegas huffs, "The treadmill faces the wall instead of the beach. They need to move it. Not much of a view, you know?"

Pete, practical as ever, raised an eyebrow. "Fair point. But why go alone? What about your security team? Where's P'Nop?"

Vegas, with a dismissive wave, insisted, "I can handle myself. Don't need an entourage for a morning jog."

Pete sighed, a hint of concern in his voice. "Vegas, Khun Kinn sent me and the secret team to ensure your safety. You have bodyguards of your own. You can't just—"

Vegas interrupted, shaking his head. "Relax, Pete. I've got it under control. No one's going to bother me."

Pete, resigned, asked, "You're still going, then?"

Vegas shook his head. "Just gonna cool down now."

Pete, offering his company, suggested, "Mind some company during your cooldown?"

Vegas, a subtle flutter in his stomach, hesitated before nodding. "Sure, why not?"

As they began walking together, Vegas a few steps ahead, Pete couldn't help but ask, "Was it really bad running on a treadmill without a view?"

Vegas, engaging in arm stretches while walking, explained, "Well, what's the use of a great view if you won't see it while going for a run? And the sea looks calming. The view somehow clears my head."

Unconsciously, Pete stares at Vegas' toned figure. He remembers that Vegas was always in good shape during his youth. And despite being in his mid-30s, Vegas still looked great, aside from the fact he's handsome and oozing with sex appeal. Suddenly, Pete couldn't suppress a blush. "Well, it's a good view, I guess."