As dusk fell over the small Maine town, the sky transformed into a beautiful canvas of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the water's edge.

Inside the town’s busiest bar, the Crow’s Nest, the usual hustle and bustle filled the air. Regulars chatted and laughed, but one newcomer drew the bartender's attention. Sage entered almost unnoticed, yet Killian's gaze was riveted on him. The younger man made his way to the pool table, where he placed a stack of quarters, signaling his intent to play next.

The two men currently at the table gave him a nod of acknowledgment as Sage moved to the bar, deliberately calling out to the young blonde bartender rather than Killian himself.

Killian smirked, his tongue clicking lightly against his teeth as Sage fetched his beer. Sage returned to the pool table to watch the ongoing game, preparing for his turn.

Killian observed intently, mixing a drink no one had ordered. He shook the cocktail shaker with a deliberate lightness, as if hoping to catch Sage’s eye or provoke a reaction from the young man.