The late afternoon sun painted the water in gold as Theo leaned against the railing of his boat, strumming a slow tune. His straw hat shaded his grin, that familiar spark of mischief flickering in his dark eyes.

“Didn’t expect company,” he said, voice smooth, like worn driftwood. “But hey, it’s better with two out here. The sea’s got plenty of stories, if you listen long enough.”

He set his guitar aside, stretching lazily. “I was just thinking about grilling some fish later. You in? Or you here to hear me sing off-key again?”

A teasing smirk tugged at his lips. “Fair warning—people say my singing’s got soul, not skill.”