Solace

Part XII: Closure

The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over Coral Island as Charles locked up the clinic for the day. It had been a typical day filled with checkups, consultations, and the usual hustle and bustle that came with being the town's doctor. He was ready to head home, where a quiet evening awaited him. As he stepped out of the clinic, adjusting his bag on his shoulder, he was surprised to see Isabel walking by, seemingly lost in thought.

She hadn't noticed him yet, her gaze fixed ahead as she walked leisurely down the street. There was a slight bounce in her step, a reflection of the contentment she'd found since settling into her new life on the island. Charles felt a pang of warmth and something else—an emotion he quickly pushed aside—as he decided to call out to her.

"Isabel!" he called, a bit louder than he intended, causing her to stop and turn in surprise.

"Oh, Charles! Hi," Isabel greeted with a warm smile. "I didn't see you there."

"I was just heading home," Charles said, a little awkwardly, as he rubbed the back of his neck. "It's nice to run into you, though."

"Yeah, it is," Isabel agreed, shifting slightly as if she was about to continue walking.

Charles hesitated, feeling the words catch in his throat. He wasn't sure why he suddenly felt nervous, but he found himself wanting to spend a little more time with her. Summoning his courage, he cleared his throat and asked, "Actually, Isabel, would you like to grab a drink with me? I know Sunny's Beach Shack isn't far, and it might be nice to unwind a bit."

Isabel's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "That sounds lovely. I could use a break before finishing up some errands."

Charles smiled, relieved that she'd accepted his offer. "Great, let's go then."

***

Sunny's Beach Shack was buzzing with the usual mix of locals and visitors, all enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and the ocean view. The shack itself was simple but inviting, with wooden tables scattered across the sand, sheltered by palm fronds and twinkling string lights. The scent of grilled seafood mingled with the salty breeze, creating a comforting ambiance that perfectly matched the island's laid-back vibe.

Charles and Isabel found a table near the edge, where they could watch the waves gently lap against the shore. The sun was beginning its descent, painting the sky with shades of orange and pink, casting long shadows across the beach.

"Hello, Charles, Isabel! What can I serve you tonight?" Sunny asked with big smile on his face.

Isabel didn't think long before deciding her choice, "Hi Sunny. A fresh coconut drink, please? Just like what I ordered a few days back."

"Woah, all right! Looks like we got a new coconut lover here." Sunny chuckled, glancing at Jim who immediately prepared the coconut for Isabel in the back. "Dr. Charles? How about you then?"

Charles, who was lost in his thoughts, got surprised by the question and quickly mentioned one that he can think of, "A bottle of soju, please, Sunny."

"Well noted, Doc." Sunny wrote the order and walked away to the back.

***

Isabel and Charles sat in comfortable silence for a few moments, taking in the view and enjoying the atmosphere. Charles glanced at Isabel, noticing the peaceful expression on her face as she watched the ocean. She seemed so at ease, so content, and he found himself feeling grateful to be in her company.

"Charles," Isabel began, breaking the silence, "I wanted to thank you for everything you did for me when I was sick. You were so supportive, not just as a doctor but as a friend. I really appreciate it."