Down the road of memories

Run into the sun

Noah POV

When we finally arrived at the beach in Malibu, the vibe between Elle and I was so not what I expected when I woke up this morning. Since yesterday, I felt good in her presence but there was always a part of discomfort between us. Silent witnesses of all that we had left unfinished for the past 6 years. Our discussion this morning at the coffee shop had opened the door to talking about all these things. The fact that we had discovered that we had had the same emotions all this time changed my way of thinking. And that kiss before we got on my motorcycle gave me hope. We just went back to behaving like we used to when we were in a relationship.

It was Elle who took my hand off the motorcycle to walk on the beach to find a quiet spot to settle. I couldn't help but watch her take off her clothes to get into a swimsuit. Her blue bikini only highlighted the curves of her body which seemed to me to be exactly what I remembered. I was so lost in my thoughts contemplating her that I didn't realize she was looking at me with an amused expression.

- What? " I said innocently.

She sat down next to me without answering me, but rolling her eyes, which meant everything.

- You haven't changed, Flynn! " She said with a smile. "It reminds me of Warren's beach party when you missed the pass because you were too busy watching me take off my shirt.

- Are you disappointed? " I said with a mock pitiful look. "That I haven't changed on this point!

She stopped to think with her finger on her chin before smiling at me and saying:

- There's always something nice about feeling wanted.

- Ah, do you think so?" I said, letting my gaze penetrate into her eyes.

She looked at me with teasing eyes as she stood up to hold out her hands as she pulled me upright. I took the opportunity to place a quick kiss on her lips before taking her hand. Since it was still early, we both went for a walk on the beach. Elle stopped at some point to look at the horizon and then closed her eyes to feel the wind on her face. I stopped too but instead of looking at the landscape, I looked at her. She seemed so lost in her thoughts.

- What are you thinking?" I asked, putting my chin on top of her head.

- How good it feels to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life. Like taking in the scenery or spending a day at the beach," she said with a sigh before looking up to see me. "In the last 6 years, I was so preoccupied with succeeding my studies that I didn't pay attention to the little things in life.

It was weird to think of my Shelly without her legendary childlike heart. I told myself that it was up to me to bring it out.

- I think it's time to bring out your child's heart," I said, turning her to me. "Shall we race, you and I?

I was already taking off my sunglasses and reached out to get Elle's sarong and glasses. She looked at me with big eyes before saying:

- I remember the last time we raced against each other, it was over for me.

- What are you afraid of, Shelly? It's not like you to turn down a challenge.

- Maybe I've changed?

- I'm not buying this! Plus, I suggest the loser pay for the ice cream this afternoon!

- Okay!" she said with a big smile.

We retreated to the beach, leaving our belongings out of reach.

- Be careful, your mark, ready, ...

And before I even say go, Elle is off like an arrow to the sea. I should have known better... I managed to stay one stride behind her thinking it would be a good idea to let her win, only for this time! As soon as she reached the waves, jumping for joy, I took her in my arms from behind to spin her in the air.