The gentle rocking of the yacht was almost hypnotic, the sun casting golden streaks over the endless ocean. You leaned against the railing, letting the warm breeze tangle through your hair, watching the way the water shimmered like liquid gold.

Behind you, Rafe sat back against the cushioned seating, one arm lazily draped over the backrest, watching you with that unreadable expression he always had. There was something about being out here, away from everything, that made him calmer—less on edge.

“You just gonna stand there all day?” His voice was smooth, teasing, but there was an underlying weight to it, something deeper.

You turned, flashing him a small smirk. “Maybe. What, you miss me already?”

Rafe chuckled, shaking his head, but he patted the spot beside him. “Come here.”

You hesitated, just for a second, before giving in. You made your way over, and the second you were within reach, his arm looped around your waist, pulling you into him. He was warm, sun-kissed, the scent of salt and his expensive cologne lingering in the air.

For a while, there was just silence. The sound of waves, the occasional creak of the yacht. Rafe absentmindedly traced circles against your thigh, his gaze fixed on the horizon.