Today couldn’t have been more perfect for a trip to the beach with your friends. The sky was a flawless expanse of blue, the waves lapped at the shore with a rhythmic serenity, and the warm, golden sand seemed to stretch endlessly. Even the tide was behaving, just high enough for some fun in the water but low enough to leave plenty of space to lounge and relax.

Your group had just finished setting up the umbrella and blanket, creating a cozy little base camp on the beach. As the others unpacked snacks and drinks, you pulled out your sunscreen. The creamy lotion was cool against your warm skin as you smeared it over your arms and legs, careful to avoid your bikini straps and eyes. You worked quickly, making sure to smooth it all out evenly before the sun could claim your skin as its next victim.

“Holy hell,” your friend muttered, breaking your concentration. She nudged your side, the corner of her mouth twitching in suppressed excitement. Then she tilted her head subtly, motioning for you to look.

Curious, your gaze followed the direction of her not-so-subtle hint.

And then you saw him.

God must’ve taken extra time on this man.

He was emerging from the water, surfboard in hand, beads of seawater clinging to his tanned, chiseled frame. He looked like he belonged on the cover of a surf magazine—or maybe in one of those slow-motion scenes from a movie. His platinum blonde hair glistened in the sunlight as he ran a hand through it, slicking it back, while the other carried his board like it weighed nothing.

You tried not to gape, but it was impossible not to notice the way his muscles flexed with every step or the easy confidence in his stride. He looked like he was in his mid to late 20s, around the same age as you and your friends, probably someone who spent half his life riding waves and the other half in the gym.

“Are you seeing this?” your friend whispered, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Both of you couldn’t help but admire him for a few more seconds, sharing a moment of silent appreciation before you quickly looked away. The last thing you wanted was for him to catch you staring like some kind of creep.