The Wings of Harmony

6. Zero O' Clock

One eternity later....

Both were sitting on the sandy beach, water dripping from their clothes, feeling exhilarated yet exhausted from their impromptu water play. The waves continued to lap at the shore, as if inviting them for more fun. Nam Joon glanced at his watch, noting the hour: "It's midnight, where yesterday and tomorrow converge. As one song ends, another begins."

She was hugging her knees, resting her head upon them, watching Nam Joon with a mix of wonder and admiration. As he gazed up at the moon, a soft breeze carried his words:

"In the moonlit waves we find our rest,

Where time and dreams are both our guest,

At midnight's hour, old tales are spun,

Endings fade, new stories begun."

She marveled, "Wow, you're quite the songwriter!" He chuckled softly; his gaze still fixed on the moon. As he laughed, his dimples danced with life, captivating her as if she were falling into a beautiful abyss, mouth open in wonder. Suddenly aware of her staring, he turned his head abruptly, breaking the spell. She quickly averted her gaze towards the sea, the momentary enchantment broken.

Taking the opportunity, Nam Joon studied her features discreetly. Her face radiated the grace of Indian heritage: almond-shaped eyes, deep and dark, framed by long, fluttering lashes against smooth, olive-toned skin. Warmth glowed from her high cheekbones, kissed gently by the moon, while her full lips curved into a serene smile with a natural, rosy hue. Her hair, as dark as a moonless night, was tied back, some escaped strands playfully swaying in the breeze.

An urge surged within him to reach out and tuck those stray strands behind her ear. He fought the impulse, locking his hands against his chest as if restraining them from their own willful desires. His movement caught her attention; she glanced back, misinterpreting his gesture as a sign of discomfort from the cold sea air. Self-critical thoughts raced through her mind as she stood up abruptly, suggesting they change out of their wet clothes to avoid any illness.

Bewildered, he realized he hadn't brought spare clothes. Sensing his predicament, she reassured him, mentioning a convenience store nearby where they could find everything they needed. As they walked back to the car, Nam Joon regretted leaving his jacket behind along with his wallet and phone. Understanding his worry, she comforted him while fetching a towel and a spare jacket from her bag, handing them to him before starting the engine.

With a smile, she quipped, "Don't worry, I think I can cover your expenses. While I can't assure designer dresses, I can certainly manage a convenience store bill." He smiled gratefully, embarrassed yet touched by her gesture, Nam Joon was promising to repay her. She chuckled softly, replying, "Sure, you can pay me back by making more investments in our company." Relieved and more at ease, Nam Joon remarked, "You're quite the CEO," and they both shared a laugh as they continued their journey.