[ it's easy to settle into this, both of their bodies still warm, damp from sweat and the press of balmy air around them. he smiles at the feel of her lips, melting against her, his arm comfortably draped along the curve of her waist. the sun hasn't quite set yet, the sky fractured into brilliant reds and pinks and oranges, and he realizes this is one of those moments he wants to hold onto, this feeling of bliss and contentment, like all is right in the world, the heaviness of his burdens cast aside. it's damn near perfect, if not for the reminder of his family's presence by way of the music wafting to the lower decks. ]

I love being in trouble. Keeps the heart healthy.

[ he smiles and presses a kiss to her jaw, idly catching a glimpse of a light blinking on his phone where alina cast is carelessly to the chair next to them. he kisses her again as he reaches over to nab it, then settles back by her side as he checks his messages. ]

Should we skip family dinner tonight? I was thinking we might take the dinghy and explore some of the caves nearby. [ his thumb scrolls across the screen while he tucks himself back into his hopelessly ruined shorts, but before he can elaborate on his idea, he abruptly sits up, eyes wide. ] Aleksander is throwing a soiree and he's bringing Zoya as his guest. All of his important business contacts will be there. She said you're getting an invitation as well.

[ he turns to her, dropping his phone and clasping her hands, his eyes bright and eager. ] Will you go? You must go. We must go. Can I be your plus one? Please?