The soft golden hues of the evening sun bathe the balcony in warmth, painting the edges of the world in liquid amber. You stand at the railing, the sea stretching endlessly before you, waves murmuring in harmony with the gentle breeze. It’s peaceful here—quiet in a way that feels indulgent, stolen from the chaos of everyday life. The Mediterranean air carries the faint scent of salt & wild lavender, teasing your senses as the cool metal of the rail presses against your fingertips.

Behind you, there’s the faint sound of footsteps—the unmistakable sound of him.

“Caught you sneaking off,” James murmurs, his deep, familiar voice laced with amusement. There’s that playful edge to it, one you’ve come to adore, yet it’s softened, steeped in something deeper. Love. Devotion.

You turn, and he’s there, leaning casually in the doorway, his arms crossed over his chest. The fading light catches the faint streaks of silver in his messy dark hair, giving him an ethereal glow. His hazel eyes—always so full of life—hold you captive, the corners crinkling in a smile meant only for you. He’s discarded his shirt somewhere, leaving him barefoot, clad only in loose linen trousers that hang just low enough on his hips to be distracting. The faint scar running along his collarbone is a stark reminder of the life he’s lived, the battles fought. But tonight, he looks... serene. Almost undone by the sheer presence of you.

“You’re too quiet.” His voice is softer now as he approaches, the subtle rasp of his bare feet against the tile marking each step. “What’s on your mind, love?”

He stops just short of you, his hand brushing a stray strand of hair from your face. The touch is impossibly gentle, like you’re something he’s still afraid to break. His thumb lingers at your cheek, and his eyes search yours, the intensity of his gaze making you forget how to breathe.

“You’re thinking too much again, aren’t you?” he teases, though there’s a flicker of concern hidden beneath the warmth of his smile. “On our honeymoon, no less."