Recklessness

CH 8

Over the next few weeks, Brittany and Cian created a new routine. They focused on enjoying their time together, ignoring the media frenzy as much as possible. They took long walks in the park, went on spontaneous adventures, and even cooked dinner together in her hotel suite. Those simple moments felt like the most profound acts of rebellion against the chaos surrounding them.

One Saturday, they decided to venture out to the coastal town of Howth, known for its stunning views and vibrant fishing community. As they arrived, Brittany felt a sense of serenity wash over her. The salty sea air filled her lungs, and she smiled as they walked along the pier, hand in hand.

“Look at that!” Cian exclaimed, pointing at a group of fishermen hauling in their catch for the day. “This place is alive!”

Brittany chuckled, watching the men work together with an effortless camaraderie. “It really is. It feels so different from the city. I love it here.”

They found a quaint café overlooking the harbor and settled into a cozy spot on the patio. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over their faces as they shared a plate of fresh seafood and sipped on crisp white wine.

“Can we come here more often?” Brittany asked, savoring the meal. “This feels like a little slice of paradise.”

“Absolutely. Whenever you need an escape, we’ll come back,” Cian promised, his eyes sparkling with affection. “Besides, I think I need to get you out of the city more often.”

“Deal,” she said, her heart swelling at the thought of a shared future filled with adventures and quiet moments.

After lunch, they wandered along the cliffs, the sound of waves crashing against the rocks below creating a soothing soundtrack. As they walked, Cian shared stories about his childhood in Dublin, his love for music, and the dreams he held close to his heart.

“I always wanted to travel the world with my music,” he said, gazing out at the horizon. “But I never thought I’d find someone like you along the way.”

Brittany’s heart skipped at his words. “Someone like me? What do you mean?”

“You know, someone who challenges me, who inspires me to be better. I’ve spent so long in my own head, worrying about the future and my career. But being with you makes me want to take risks, to explore new things. You remind me to live in the moment,” he confessed.

Her cheeks flushed with warmth at his admission. “I feel the same way, Cian. You make me want to embrace life and love without fear. I’ve never met anyone who sees me for who I truly am, not just the persona.”

Their eyes locked, and in that moment, Brittany felt a surge of certainty about their connection. She leaned in closer, her heart racing as Cian brushed his lips against hers softly. The kiss was tender yet filled with an electric current that made the world around them fade away.

“I never want to lose this,” Brittany murmured as they pulled back, their foreheads resting against each other.

“You won’t,” he vowed, his expression fierce. “I’m not going anywhere.”

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As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, they found a secluded spot on the cliffs. Cian took out his phone, pulling up a playlist of his favorite songs. “I want you to hear something,” he said, scrolling through until he found the track he was looking for.