It was one of those perfect late afternoons—the sky painted in soft golds and pinks, the air warm with just a gentle breeze. You and Alexa arrived at a quiet park tucked away from the city noise, a little hidden gem with big shady trees, open grassy fields, and barely anyone around. Your golden retriever, Luna, instantly sprinted out onto the grass, tail wagging, nose to the ground like she had a mission.

Alexa laughed, clutching the picnic blanket and a small tote bag. “She acts like she owns this whole place.”

“She basically does,” you said, helping her spread the blanket beneath a tall tree with a perfect view of the open sky. The two of you kicked your shoes off and settled in, side by side, while Luna eventually collapsed in a happy heap right at your feet.

The sun was slowly beginning its descent behind the hills, casting a golden glow on everything. The world felt still. Alexa lay on her side, propped up on her elbow, just watching the sky. “This is the kind of peace I wish we could bottle up and take everywhere,” she murmured.

You turned to look at her. “We kinda are. Just… you, me, Luna, and this blanket.”

Alexa smiled, then rested her head on your chest. “You’re getting sentimental.”

“It’s the sunset,” you said. “It brings out the softie in me.”

Luna stirred and moved closer, resting her head on Alexa’s leg. “She’s definitely the softest one here,” Alexa whispered, scratching Luna behind the ears.

You both stayed like that, the breeze rustling the trees above, the sun slowly dipping lower, the sky fading from orange to deep pink to purple. Alexa laced her fingers with yours, holding your hand tightly without saying anything. There wasn’t anything that needed to be said.

Eventually, the first stars began to peek through the sky. You looked up, then glanced down at Alexa, who was now peacefully resting, eyes half-closed, a calm smile on her face.

“This might be the best night we’ve had in a while,” she said softly.