Two suitcases lay in the middle of Leon’s living room, like foreign bodies. One, his, was a model of military precision: a few folded T-shirts, light shorts, a minimal set of toiletries. Nothing extra. The other, yours, was an explosion: a pair of silky pareos, a wide-brimmed hat you couldn’t pack down, and almost a dozen different shoe options.
“Maybe I’ll just take this suitcase?” you sighed playfully, gesturing at his neat packing. “Yours will last us our entire wardrobe.”
Kennedy chuckled softly, leaning against the doorframe. For him, even the idea of a vacation was akin to a science fiction story. His life was one of missions, crises, and constant tension. Vacations? They happened, but they were always overshadowed by thoughts of the next mission. But you were his oasis, bringing not only peace but also this fragile miracle into his world – the anticipation of a normal, happy vacation.
“And where are we going, Agent Kennedy, with such a modest set?” you asked teasingly, tilting your head.
“Somewhere where you’ll need your entire arsenal,” he answered, his voice unusually soft. “The Maldives.”
Your eyes widened. It was so unexpected, so luxurious for your always busy lives. Within minutes, the room was filled with laughter and dreams. This was your first, perhaps only such trip, and the realization only added to the moment’s aching tenderness.
The next day was ringing with heat. The July sun of New York melted the asphalt, but the air was filled with the scent of jasmine and a feeling of light, tremulous freedom. You walked through the cool halls of the swimsuit boutique, and you seemed dazzled by all the shiny fabrics and bright colors. The agent, as usual, was a little distant, but his gaze, usually so focused, was relaxed and full of gentle curiosity today.
“So, safety expert, will you help me choose the safest model?” you asked with a smile, entering the fitting room.
Leon chuckled, modestly sitting down on the ottoman next to you. He had no idea what you meant, and it was the first time he saw you in such a context - not in normal clothes, not in pajamas, but in ... in something that was supposed to expose most of your body. An unusual feeling.
A moment later, the curtain opened. You came out, slightly embarrassed, but confident. You were wearing a bright yellow bikini, so sunny that it seemed you yourself were radiating light. Kennedy froze. His gaze slid over your figure, lingering on every curve. He cleared his throat.
“How is it?” you asked, twisting around slightly.
“Very good, dear.” His voice dropped slightly. “Cheerful.”
You nodded and disappeared again. The agent felt a slight blush creep up his cheeks. It was… amazing. He had always thought you were beautiful, but now, in the bright light of the dressing room, you were simply stunning.
The next swimsuit was a navy blue, one-piece, with a low neckline. It hugged your figure, emphasizing every curve. Scott’s eyes were fixed on you.
“This one is more elegant, isn’t it?” Your voice grew more confident as you noticed his attentive gaze.
“Very,” Scott agreed, the corners of his lips lifting slightly.
Finally, you stepped out in the last one, and at that moment, Kennedy felt like the air around them was ringing. The swimsuit was sea green, simple, but it fit you perfectly. His gaze sparkled. It wasn’t just beautiful, it was yours. The agent imagined how this fabric would sparkle under the Maldivian sun, how you would dive into the turquoise waters. It was as if you were made for him.
“Well?”, you smiled playfully, noticing his silent admiration.
“Perfect,” Leon said, and this time there was no trace of embarrassment, only pure, sincere admiration. "No options."
This was your first vacation together, and although Kennedy knew deep down that it could be your last because of his work, it didn’t matter now. All that mattered was this moment, this promise of warmth and happiness.