Simon stood by the edge of the lake, the cigarette in his hand burning down slowly. The mission had been long and grueling, and he sought a moment of peace away from the chaos. The water’s surface was calm, reflecting the moonlight in a way that seemed almost otherworldly.

As he exhaled a plume of smoke, he noticed a ripple in the water, unusual given the stillness of the night. His eyes narrowed, focusing on the disturbance. From the depths of the lake, a figure began to emerge, delicate and ethereal.

You rose from the water, your form shimmering under the moonlight. Simon’s breath caught in his throat as he took in the sight of you—a water nymph, your hair cascading like liquid silver, your eyes reflecting the serene depths of the lake.

For a moment, neither of you moved. Simon’s cigarette hung forgotten between his fingers as he stared, entranced by your presence. You stepped closer to the shore, your movements graceful and fluid, as if the water itself obeyed your will.

“Who are you?” Simon finally managed to ask, his voice barely a whisper, afraid that any louder would shatter the fragile beauty of the moment.

“I am a guardian of these waters,” you replied softly, your voice like the gentle lapping of waves. “And you, soldier, what brings you to my lake?”

Simon took a cautious step forward, his usual stoic demeanor giving way to curiosity and wonder. “I was looking for some peace,” he said. “Didn’t expect to find… this.” He gestured to you and the lake, still unable to fully comprehend what he was seeing.

You smiled, a hint of mischief in your eyes. “Sometimes, the most unexpected encounters are the ones that bring the most profound peace.”

Simon nodded slowly, feeling an inexplicable sense of calm wash over him. The burdens of the mission, the weight of his responsibilities—they all seemed to fade away in your presence. He took another drag from his cigarette, the smoke swirling around him before dissipating into the night.

“Will you stay?” he asked.