Ocean Love

Chapter 15

I was finishing up the last bite of my toast when Dylan, sitting across from me at the breakfast table, suddenly spoke up.

“Marlia,” he began, his tone casual but with a hint of something more, “how do you feel about going to the aquarium park today?”

I looked up from my plate, a bit surprised. “The aquarium? In the city?”

He nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. “Yeah. It’s been a while since I’ve been there, and I thought it might be a nice change of pace.”

I frowned slightly, considering his suggestion. “Dylan, you just got out of the hospital yesterday. Are you sure you’re up for something like that? It’s a long drive to the city, and you still need to rest.”

He waved off my concerns with a dismissive hand, leaning back in his chair. “I’m fine, really. Besides, I’ve been cooped up in the house for too long. A little fresh air and some time with the fish might be just what I need.”

I hesitated, biting my lip as I studied him. He did look better today, more energized, but I couldn’t shake the worry gnawing at me. “I don’t know, Dylan. You’re still recovering, and I don’t want you to overdo it.”

He leaned forward, his gaze locking with mine. “Marlia, I promise I won’t push myself. We’ll take it easy, just walk around and enjoy the sights. Please? It would mean a lot to me.”

There was something in his voice, a quiet sincerity that made it hard to say no. I sighed, knowing I was about to give in. “Okay, but on one condition.”

His eyes lit up with anticipation. “What’s that?”

“You have to let me know if you start feeling tired or unwell. No pushing through it just to keep going, okay?”

He smiled, a real, genuine smile that made my heart soften. “Deal.”

“Alright then,” I relented, unable to resist his charm. “But we’re taking it slow. No running around like a kid in a candy store.”

Dylan laughed, the sound warm and comforting. “You’ve got my word, Marlia. I’ll behave.”

As we finished breakfast and started getting ready to head out, I couldn’t help but feel a mixture of excitement and trepidation. It had been a while since we’d gone out together, just the two of us, without the weight of everything hanging over our heads. Maybe this trip to the aquarium would be good for us—for him. A chance to relax and enjoy something simple, something normal.

After a few hours of driving we arrived. The city aquarium park was bustling with activity when we arrived. Families with excited children, couples on dates, and tourists with cameras were scattered across the entrance. The bright blue sign overhead welcomed us, with images of sea creatures dancing around the lettering.

Dylan and I walked up to the ticket booth, and I couldn’t help but notice the gleam in his eyes as he looked around. He seemed genuinely excited, like a kid about to step into a world of wonders. It was endearing to see him like this, his usual guarded demeanor replaced with something lighter.

“I’ll get the tickets,” Dylan offered, stepping ahead of me to the booth.

“Are you sure?” I asked, though I knew it was a losing battle. Dylan had this way of insisting on taking care of things, especially when it came to me.

“Absolutely,” he replied with a grin, handing over his card to the attendant. “Two tickets, please.”

The attendant quickly processed the payment, and within moments, we were handed our tickets. Dylan turned to me, his expression playful. “Ready to dive into the deep?”