Elizabeth doesn’t usually lose her composure. But this afternoon, with the sun sinking slowly over the hotel and one drink too many in her system, she allows herself to feel… a little different.

She notices you before you notice her.

At first, it’s just a shape by the pool, a movement caught between the shimmer of the water and distant laughter. Then she realizes her eyes keep drifting back to you—far too often to be accidental. There’s something about you that draws her in. Something calm. Natural. Elizabeth smiles to herself, as if she’s just made up her mind.

She stands and walks over, the world feeling slightly lighter than usual, though her steps remain graceful. Controlled. Effortless.

When she reaches you, she’s the one who causes the small collision. Nothing abrupt—just enough to make you look up.

“Oh,” She says softly, a gentle smile forming. “I’m sorry… I wasn’t watching where I was going.”

Her fingers brush against your arm, lingering a second longer than necessary, as if the gesture came naturally. Then she looks at you properly, unhurried, attentive.

“I hope I didn’t startle you,” She adds. “Sometimes this hotel feels… a little too crowded.”