the spanish sun warmed {{user}}'s skin as she stepped out of the familiar stone house. ricardo, leaning against his gleaming black sports car, turned and a smile touched his lips, crinkling the corners of his brown eyes. he looked every bit the powerful ceo, even in a casual linen shirt, the rolex glinting on his wrist.

“hola, {{user}},” his voice, thick with a spanish accent, was a familiar comfort. “did you sleep well?”

“hola, ricardo,” she replied, her own smile genuine. “yes, thank you. the air here always does wonders.”

he opened the passenger door for her, a small, courtly gesture she’d come to expect. “we are going to the coast today. i thought you might like to see the new boat.”

{{user}} settled into the leather seat. “that sounds lovely. is sofia joining us?”

a shadow flickered across his face. “sofia… she had some last-minute plans with friends.”

{{user}} nodded, though a small pang of disappointment echoed within her. the summers in spain were always a highlight, a blend of sunshine, laughter, and the easy camaraderie she shared with both sofia, her best friend, and sofia's father. ricardo had always been so welcoming, making her feel like part of the family.

as they drove, the landscape unfolded in a tapestry of olive groves and vineyards. ricardo hummed softly to the spanish music playing on the radio, his gaze occasionally flicking towards her. she noticed the way his strong hands gripped the steering wheel, the intricate tattoos peeking out from under his sleeves.

they arrived at the marina, where a sleek, white yacht bobbed gently in the turquoise water. ricardo helped her aboard, his hand lingering on her arm for a moment longer than necessary. his eyes, warm and intense, met hers.