The sun hadn't yet set.
Sophia Sullivan walked side by side with Ethan Sullivan along the Deer Lake Mountain trail.
Lush trees filtered the fading sunlight into scattered golden patches.
"That blue lake over there," Sophia pointed into the distance, "I came here once as a child."
Pebbles crunched softly beneath her feet.
"I took this same path. My mother told me to slow down so I wouldn't fall." Her voice softened. "Strange how I've forgotten most childhood memories, but I still remember her voice—so gentle."
Years ago, when she'd lost her sight and been rescued by Liam Winston, they'd promised to return here together.
How times had changed.
Ethan turned to look at her.
His dark shirt hung open at the collar, tie long discarded.
The sunset glow softened his usual sharp edges with a lazy halo.
"You'll see your mother again soon." His deep voice rumbled. "The nursing home reports Grandma's been more lucid lately. You can visit when she's coherent."
Sophia nodded. "Dr. Ian said while Alzheimer's has no cure, the new medication can extend periods of clarity—"
Before she could finish, an excited voice called from behind.
"Sophia darling!"
Isabella Robinson fluttered over like a butterfly, embracing her tightly.
"I've missed you so much!" Her eyes crinkled with laughter. "Confess—when did you and Mr. Sullivan arrive?"
"Just now." Sophia steadied herself, noticing Julian Roscente behind Isabella. "More importantly, why are you with Mr. Roscente here?"
"Arranged marriage nonsense." Isabella rolled her eyes with a meaningful glance.
Several bodyguards stood watch nearby.
Sophia understood immediately. These two had been forced into this date, both thoroughly displeased.
Julian sauntered over, eyeing Ethan with raised brows.
"So this is why you hung up on me, Sullivan? Choosing romance over friendship?"
"Aren't you on a date too?" Ethan replied evenly. "What a coincidence."
Isabella scoffed. "Don't misunderstand, Mr. Sullivan. Julian and I are just performing for our families."
Julian spread his hands. "Exactly. Merely playing our parts."
Their mutual disdain was palpable.
Sophia chuckled. "You two act like bickering lovers."
"Only the bickering part!" Isabella huffed.
Then her gaze caught on Sophia's neck.
A faint love mark peeked from her collar.
Isabella's eyes lit up. Leaning close, she whispered, "Sophia darling, what's going on between you and Mr. Sullivan...?"
Ethan's fingers twitched.
He remembered Sophia wanting time to adjust.
Would she acknowledge their relationship?
But Sophia calmly took his hand.
"We're together." Her smile shone clear as spring water. "We made it official yesterday. I hadn't told you yet."
Fireworks exploded in Ethan's chest.
He interlaced their fingers tightly.
"Yes. We're a couple now." The corner of his mouth lifted.
Isabella gasped. "It finally happened!"
She'd sensed their chemistry for ages.
After all their circling, they'd finally taken the leap.
Her eyes grew moist as she squeezed Sophia's hand. "If Sullivan ever mistreats you, the Robinsons will have your back!"
Julian offered surprised congratulations. "You wouldn't believe how moody Sullivan's been these past—"
Ethan's sharp glare silenced him.
Isabella caught on instantly, tugging Julian's arm.
"Mr. Roscente, I heard Deer Lake Mountain has spirit deer! Come take photos with me to satisfy our families!"
She dragged a protesting Julian toward the opposite trail.
Julian muttered under his breath.
There were only lakes here—since when did deer appear?
Yet he didn't resist, letting her pull him into the wooded shadows.