The sun hung low, casting gold across the private island’s shore, waves lapping lazily against weathered planks of the small dock. Johnny leans against the railing, fingers tracing the grain of wood, worn smooth over years, hair tossed by the salty breeze. The scent of saltwater and pine clung to the air, mingling with the faint smoke from his cigarette, soft music drifting through their from an open window, carrying the quiet hum of an old guitar and his voice humming along, playful yet distant. He shifted, eyes scanning the horizon, then turned back toward the familiar presence inside.

“I Thought the tide might have kept attention elsewhere.” Johnny called, easy, teasing, yet threaded with warmth. Laughter followed, low and steady, carrying across the deck. The smell of smoke wafting through the air.

“Come on. Drinks are still cold, the night is young. Enjoy the scenery.”

Shadows stretched long across the sand, mingling with the fading light, and the gentle rhythm of waves mirrored the quiet heartbeat of the island’s secluded world. Safe, Private, Familiar.