Unexpected Love

【X】【I】

(Kylie's version)

I woke up slowly, feeling the soft heat of the sun entering the curtains and a slight aroma of sea breeze filling the room. Malia was still sleeping next to me, her face serene, her lips slightly curved in a quiet smile, as if she were having a sweet dream. The distant sound of the waves against the cruise hull brought a feeling of calm, as if we were in a universe of our own, far from everything. I approached, nestling closer to her, not wanting to lose the warmth of her body.

I still felt the intense happiness of the previous night in every cell of my body. After so much time of hesitation and uncertainty, we were finally together, and that moment was perfect. I ran my fingers lightly over Malia's face, not wanting to wake her up, just allowing me to absorb the reality of being next to her.

She began to move, and her eyes slowly opened, meeting mine. I smiled at her.

•Kylie: Good morning, my beautiful. - I whispered, feeling a quiet happiness grow inside me.

•Malia: Good morning, love. Did you sleep well? - her voice was still sleepy, but full of tenderness.

•Kylie: Like a baby... And you? - I asked, caressing her hair.

•Malia: Me too. Very well. I don't think I've ever slept so well in my life - she replied, smiling.

•Kylie: Are you in pain?-I ask worried

•Malia: Nothing I can't solve.

We laughed together, a light and carefree laugh that filled the room. It was one of those rare moments, where everything seemed exactly as it should be.

•Kylie: How about a breakfast at the restaurant with the staff? - I suggested, feeling a sting of excitement. - They must be waiting for us.

•Malia: It looks perfect. I'll change and meet you there.

As she got up to change, I stretched out, taking advantage of the last moments of laziness before getting ready. I remembered that the group had agreed to meet for a quiet breakfast at the cruise restaurant and then spend the day at the beach. A day without haste, without complicated plans - exactly what we needed.

A few minutes later, Malia was ready, wearing a light dress that made her look even more radiant. We went down together to the restaurant, where the rest of the group was already gathered.

Ruby, Joshua, Morgan, Dara and Peder welcomed us with warm smiles and excited greetings.

•Ruby: Look who decided to show up! -she knoked, waving to us.

•Joshua: Good morning, dovines! - Joshua laughed, with a mischievous glow in his eyes.

•Kylie: Good morning, guys! - I replied, holding Malia's hand. - Ready for a quiet day at the beach?

Everyone agreed with enthusiasm, and soon we ordered a simple breakfast - fresh fruits, breads, juices. While we were waiting for our requests, the conversation flowed naturally. It was good to be there, with them, feeling that there was no hurry, just a feeling of camaraderie and joy.

**. ••**

After breakfast, we all went to the deck, where the smaller boat was waiting to take us to a nearby private beach. The sun was shining, and the sky was an intense blue, with no clouds. I felt the salty air of the sea fill my lungs and realized how happy I was at that moment, surrounded by the people I loved.