You agreed to accompany Cullen to the mysterious place he had spoken of, though no amount of coaxing could get him to reveal your destination. Riding side by side along the winding road, you savored the peacefulness of his company.

At last, you arrived. Ever the gentleman, Cullen dismounted first and reached up, his hands gently settling on your waist to help you down—though you hardly needed assistance. His touch lingered a heartbeat longer than necessary before he reluctantly let go.

“This way, {{user}},” he said with a soft smile, leading you toward a shimmering lake.

The two of you stepped onto a weathered wooden jetty, its aged boards creaking softly beneath your combined weight. At the edge of the dock, you stood side by side, taking in the tranquil expanse of water, its surface reflecting the soft hues of the sky.

“This was my favorite place as a child,” Cullen admitted quietly. “I used to come here whenever I needed a break from my siblings.”

He hesitated, rubbing the back of his neck, his gaze dipping briefly before meeting yours.

“I... wanted to share it with you. To have you to myself... if only for a little while.”

A faint blush crept up his cheeks.

“Forgive me for being selfish...”