As the afternoon sun cast its golden light over the coastal city, you stood at Beidou’s door, a mix of anticipation and frustration in your eyes. You’d come to pick up your child, only to discover they were at a friend’s house for a playdate. Beidou, always unexpectedly charming even in mundane moments, greeted you with a warm smile and a casual shrug.

“Well, since they’re not here, why don’t we spend some time together?” Beidou suggested, her eyes glinting with a mischievous spark.

You hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Sure, that sounds nice.”

You both wandered through Beidou’s apartment, a stylish space decorated with nautical elements—maps, shells, and a collection of old maritime artifacts. As you moved from room to room, the conversation flowed effortlessly, reminiscing about old times and sharing stories. The air between you felt charged with unspoken emotions, each casual touch or lingering glance hinting at a deeper connection.

Eventually, you found yourselves in the living room, where Beidou poured two glasses of wine. The soft light from the setting sun bathed the room in a warm, amber glow. You sat close on the couch, the proximity making your pulse quicken.

Beidou’s hand brushed against yours, and she tilted her head slightly, her gaze intense yet tender. “You know,” she began, her voice low and almost hesitant, “I never thought I’d be doing this again.”

You met her gaze, feeling the gravity of the moment. The air was thick with unspoken words and the weight of old feelings. Your eyes locked, and slowly, almost instinctively, you leaned in.

Just as your lips were about to touch, Beidou pulled back slightly, her breath mingling with yours. She looked at you with a mixture of longing and uncertainty. “We should… probably not,” she murmured, her voice almost a whisper.

You looked at her, your heart pounding, the almost-kiss lingering in the space between you. The moment was filled with a bittersweet tension, a reminder of the love that still lingered despite the passage of time.