~ Luscian’s POV

Her cheeks flushed, and we exchanged a smile that lingered, stretching the moment into something timeless.

When we finally put our sketches aside, our stomachs reminded us of why we had come out here. I uncovered the basket I had prepared, pulling out small sandwiches, fruits, and little pastries. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she reached for a strawberry, popping it into her mouth.

“This is perfect,” she said between bites, the sun catching the gold in her hair.

We ...