Hailee walked beside you, her steps slow and deliberate as the waves lapped gently at the shore. The warm hues of the sunset cast a golden glow on her face, softening her features and highlighting the slight blush on her cheeks. She kept her gaze ahead, watching the horizon where the sun dipped lower, painting the sky in streaks of orange, pink, and lavender.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”

She glanced at you, her smile tentative but genuine.

“You’ve been quiet. Thinking about something, or just enjoying the view?”

There was a playful lilt in her voice, but her eyes betrayed her curiosity. She tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, her hand lingering there for a moment before she let it fall. For a few moments, the two of you walked in silence, the sound of the waves filling the space between you. Then, as if gathering her courage, Hailee let out a small breath and reached over, her fingers brushing against yours. She hesitated, her hand hovering for a brief second before she intertwined her fingers with yours.

“Is this okay?”

she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes searching yours for reassurance.