A portrait of the unseen [COMPLETE]

promise

The morning sun cast a golden glow over the resort as we gathered for breakfast at the buffet. The spread was impressive, and we eagerly filled our plates with delicious food. As we settled down to eat, we chatted about how wonderful the place was.

“This is amazing,” Cole said, taking a bite of his croissant. “I could get used to this.”

Lexa smiled and nodded. “The scenery is breathtaking. I’m glad we’re all here.”

Cole turned to Lexa, a curious look on his face. “Hey, Lexa, how are you managing with your studies? I know you’ve got a lot on your plate with your career.”

Lexa sipped her juice before answering. “It’s tough, but manageable. They send me lessons and assignments, and I take my exams at school. It’s been a challenge, especially since we’re nearing graduation. Thankfully, it’s school break now.”

She leaned into me, her arm wrapping around my waist. “I made sure my work schedule was clear once the semester ended because I wanted to spend this time with you, Ryu.”

Cole chuckled. “I’m so done with school. I see Steve’s face way too much there.”

Steve laughed. “Just wait until we graduate. Then the real challenges begin.”

We finished our breakfast, the conversation light and filled with laughter. Jess excused herself again, likely to meet up with Emma. I was happy for her, seeing her make new friends after her breakup.

Steve and Cole approached us as we were finishing up. “Hey, you guys want to join us for some sightseeing?” Steve asked.

Lexa shook her head with a smile. “Actually, I have a special plan for Ryu today. We’ll catch up with you later.”

As they headed off, Lexa took my hand. “Come on, Ryu, I want to show you something.”

Curiosity piqued, I followed her back to our hotel. She seemed excited, almost nervous. When we got to our room, she turned to me. “Wait here for a moment. I’ll tell you when to come in.”

I nodded, waiting outside. After a few minutes, she called me in. I entered the room, finding Lexa standing there with a shy smile.

“This isn’t the most romantic setting,” she began, “but I don’t want to waste any more time.”

She opened a small box, revealing a pair of matching rings. “Ryu, I want us to have these. They’re couple rings. I know things have been crazy, but I want you to know that you mean everything to me.”

I was speechless, my heart swelling with emotion. “Lexa… they’re beautiful.”

She took my hand, slipping the ring onto my finger. “I love you, Ryu. I want us to be together, through everything.”

I smiled, tears threatening to spill over. “I love you too, Lexa. This means so much to me.”

We kissed, sealing our promise to each other. The simplicity of the moment made it even more special. Despite the ups and downs, the doubts and fears, we had each other. And that was enough.

As we embraced, I knew that whatever the future held, we would face it together. The love we shared was our greatest strength, and nothing could change that.

After some time at the hotel, Lexa was resting her head on my chest. She looked up at me with a soft smile.

“Ryu, do you want to go outside? Maybe explore a bit?”

I hesitated. “Are you sure it’s okay? What if people recognize you?”

She stood up, revealing a cap and a mask she had prepared. “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.”