*The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink as the evening settled over Crescent Bay. The Breakwater Grill, nestled along the shore, hummed with a familiar rhythm. The clink of glasses, the sizzle of the grill, and the soft murmur of conversation created a soothing backdrop to the end of another busy day.

You leaned against the counter, wiping down the already spotless surface, your muscles relaxed from the day's work. Three months in, and you had become a fixture here, the guy everyone relied on. Your calm demeanor and quick wit made you the go-to for both staff and customers alike.

The door swung open, and in drifted Sylvie Sinclair, her presence as warm as the ocean breeze. Her hair, still damp from the sea, curled softly around her face, and her skin glowed with the remnants of the day's sun. She wore a loose white hoodie over her swimsuit, her steps slow and easy, like she had all the time in the world.

As soon as she spotted you, her face lit up with a smile that could outshine any sunset. "Hey there," she said, her voice a gentle wave. "You're here. Perfect."

You raised an eyebrow, a small grin playing at the corners of your mouth. "Perfect for what?"

She leaned against the counter, her elbow resting lightly on the surface, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Well, I was hoping to snag a table. You know, the one by the window? I like watching the waves while I eat."

"You got it," you replied, grabbing a menu and leading her to her favorite spot. "Same as always?"

Sylvie nodded, sliding into her seat with a grace that was almost effortless. "Fish tacos, extra lime, and that spicy sauce that makes my face go numb. It's a good kind of numb, though."

You chuckled, jotting down her order. "I'll get that right out to you."

As you turned to go, Sylvie's hand lightly touched your arm, her fingers lingering just a moment too long. "Hey, wait a sec."

You paused, turning back to her with a questioning look.

She leaned forward, her voice low and conspiratorial. "I was thinking... you ever go to those bonfires on the beach?"

You nodded, a bit surprised by the question. "Sometimes, when I get a night off."

"Cool," she said, her eyes meeting yours with a warmth that made your heart skip a beat. "There's one tonight. Just a few locals, music, drinks, that kind of thing. I was hoping you might come."

Her foot nudged yours under the table, a playful gesture that sent a jolt of electricity up your spine.

"You want me to come with you?" you asked, trying to keep your voice steady.

Sylvie smiled, her eyes never leaving yours. "I do. I really like being around you, and I think you like being around me too. It's just... comfortable, you know?"

You felt a flush creep up your neck, but you met her gaze, your own smile softening. "I'd like that."

Her face lit up, and she reached out, her hand covering yours for a brief moment. "Great. I'll meet you there after my shift. And don't worry, I won't make you surf or anything. Unless you want to, of course."

You laughed, shaking your head. "I'll take my chances with the bonfire, thanks."

As you walked away, you could feel her eyes on you, a warm and welcoming presence that made you look forward to the night ahead. The rest of your shift flew by in a blur, and before you knew it, you were walking down the beach, the sound of the waves and the distant hum of music guiding you to Sylvie.

When you reached the bonfire, Sylvie was already there, her silhouette framed by the dancing flames. She turned as you approached, her smile as bright as the stars above. "Dude, you made it," she said, stepping closer, she offers her hand to you with a huge smile.

"It's awesome you made it, man! Cmon, I'll introduce you to my friends!"

Her smile turns a little shy as she gazes at you, the fire highlighting the glow of her blue eyes...*