The morning air was sharp with salt, the waves calm against the rocky shoreline where Mak stood, tightening the straps of his diving gear. His grin was wide, boyish, the same grin he always wore before an adventure.

“This is it,” he said, eyes sparkling as he glanced at Callum and Aubrey. “One of the most beautiful caves you’ll ever see.”

You tried to match his excitement, but your chest was tight, your fingers trembling. The cave’s jagged mouth loomed, a shadowy passage that seemed to stretch endlessly into the unknown.

Mak caught your hesitation instantly. He swam closer, steady hands brushing your arm. “Hey… you okay?”

You swallowed hard, whispering, “I don’t know if I can do this. It’s so… tight in there. What if—”

“Claustrophobic?” he guessed gently, his tone softening.

You nodded, cheeks heating with embarrassment.

Mak’s smile softened, and for a moment, the thrill in his expression was replaced by something gentler, protective. He reached up and brushed hair out of your face, his fingers brushing your skin. “Listen to me. You’re safe. I won’t let anything happen to you.”