I love you , I'm sorry • Max Verstappen

7.

Lewis stood at the open door of the cozy beachfront bungalow, Roscoe wagging his tail excitedly beside him. The golden light of the late afternoon sun cast a warm glow on Alice as she made her way up the sandy path, barefoot, her light, flowy sundress fluttering in the breeze. The dress, a soft lavender shade with delicate floral prints, perfectly matched the tranquil surroundings. Her wide-brimmed straw hat was tilted slightly, and her beach bag hung loosely on her shoulder.

“Finally,” Lewis teased, leaning casually against the doorframe, his eyes warm as they traced her figure.

Alice rolled her eyes, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “Finally? You’ve been lounging around here like royalty while I went to grab snacks!”

He chuckled, stepping aside to let her in. “What can I say? It’s part of the vacation experience.” His voice was low, but there was an undeniable tenderness in it as he watched her move past him, the soft scent of her perfume lingering in the air.

The bungalow itself was the definition of serene. Constructed from natural wood and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, it felt like it was one with nature. Large glass doors opened to a private deck that overlooked the turquoise ocean. Inside, the décor was minimal yet inviting—white linen curtains, soft earth-toned cushions, and handmade woven rugs. The sound of waves was ever-present, a soothing reminder of their escape from the world.

Alice dropped her bag onto the couch and glanced at Roscoe, who sat patiently at her feet, his tail wagging. “At least someone appreciates me,” she joked, crouching to give him a good scratch behind his ears.

Lewis smirked, but there was something softer in his gaze. “Oh, I appreciate you. Now, let me show you how much.” His voice dropped lower, playful but also serious. “Fancy a swim?”

She tilted her head, raising a brow. “I just got dry, Lew.”

“Too bad,” he replied with a mischievous grin. Before she could react, he scooped her up in a bridal carry, his arms strong around her as her breath caught.

“Lewis!” she squealed, half-laughing, half-protesting. “Put me down!”

He held her closer, grinning at her flustered expression, their faces only inches apart. “Gladly,” he teased, striding toward the water. The soft sand beneath his feet transitioned into cool waves lapping at his ankles. With a playful toss, he sent her into the water.

Alice surfaced, sputtering but laughing uncontrollably, the sound of her laughter echoing in his chest. Her dress clung to her as she pushed wet hair from her face, her eyes bright with playful challenge. “You are so lucky I’m having fun, or I’d murder you right now.”

He dove in beside her, splashing her in response, but this time, he lingered a little longer than usual, his touch lingering just a fraction of a second more than necessary. “Relax, you’re on vacation!” he teased, though his voice carried a deeper warmth.

They spent the next hour playing in the water, chasing each other and tossing a ball for Roscoe, who paddled excitedly after it. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and lavender, they waded back to shore, breathless but content.

Back at the bungalow, Alice had changed into a pair of soft, cotton shorts and an oversized sweater that hung off one shoulder, her damp hair tied in a loose braid. She joined Lewis on the deck, where he was sprawled out on a hammock, Roscoe snoozing by his side. The moment she settled beside him, he shifted slightly, making room for her.

Alice smiled, her fingers brushing lightly over the woven fabric of the hammock, avoiding his gaze for a moment. “This place… it’s magical. Thank you for bringing me here.”