Whispers

Under the Stars

The morning sun poured into the bedroom, waking her gently. She blinked awake, feeling the warmth of the day wrapping around her like a cozy blanket. A glance at the clock told her it was late morning, and the thought of Cillian just a room away sent a rush of excitement through her.

After freshening up, she headed to the kitchen, the aroma of coffee brewing filling the air. Just as she poured herself a cup, Cillian appeared, tousled hair and sleepy eyes making him look effortlessly charming. "Good morning," he said with a smile that lit up his face.

"Good morning! Sleep well?" she asked, trying to hide her nervousness.

"Like a baby," he replied, stretching slightly. "This place is perfect."

She felt a warmth spread through her at his words. "I'm glad you like it. I thought we could go out for breakfast. There's a great little café nearby."

"Sounds perfect," he said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

After a quick bite, they set out into the vibrant streets of Nafplio. The town was alive with morning activity—locals chatting, children playing, and the sun reflecting off the water. She felt a sense of contentment as they walked, side by side.

As they strolled along the harbor, Cillian reached for her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. The touch was unexpected, and her heart raced at the simple yet intimate gesture. She glanced at him, surprised, but he looked down at their joined hands with a smile, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

For a moment, she felt a surge of exhilaration mixed with apprehension. Was it really crazy for her to be with someone she had met just two weeks ago? The thought lingered in her mind, but as they walked, the connection between them felt undeniably genuine.

Cillian's presence was calming, and she felt safe with him, as if all the uncertainties of the world had faded away. They passed shops filled with local crafts, and he leaned down to whisper something about a painting in a gallery they had just walked by, making her laugh.

"Can you believe I'm letting a stranger sleep in my house?" she thought, half-amused at the situation. Yet the thought didn't frighten her. Instead, it felt thrilling. Cillian radiated warmth and kindness, qualities she hadn't expected to find in someone she barely knew.

"Where to next?" he asked, pulling her back to the moment.

"Let's check out the old fortress!" she suggested, pointing up at the towering Palamidi.

"Lead the way," he said, and she felt a rush of happiness at the thought of sharing her favorite spots with him.

As they walked, she couldn't help but steal glances at him. There was something magnetic about the way he moved, the way he smiled, and the way he held her hand like it was the most precious thing. It felt right, and she found herself wanting to explore not just her town, but the connection that was blossoming between them.

Lost in thought, she suddenly stumbled over a loose cobblestone. Before she could even process what was happening, Cillian's hand was there, steadying her like it was nothing. He pulled her close, his grip firm yet gentle, and she found herself gazing into his eyes, a mix of surprise and relief washing over her.

"You okay?" he asked, concern flickering in his gaze.

"Yeah, I'm fine," she replied, laughing nervously as she regained her balance. "Just a little clumsy."

He smiled, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Just keep your eyes on me, and you'll be fine."

---

After exploring the fortress, they decided to treat themselves to ice cream from a nearby shop. The rich, sweet aroma of freshly made cones wafted through the air, and she felt her excitement bubble over.