Royce

You always loved that unusual balance: silence and noise at the same time. Not clubs until the early hours, but evenings on a bench—when you and your friends sit until late, chatting about everything and nothing, laughing, sharing your thoughts. Your group was large, warm, and intimate. You spent every vacation together, and it became almost a tradition.

But this year everything went differently.

One friend flew to the Maldives with her parents, while the others went their separate ways. It turned out that for the first time, everyone had their own plans. No one was upset, because you knew: if this were the case, there would be lots of gifts, stories, and voices saying, "You can't imagine what's here. "

You spent a long time thinking about what to do yourself. It had been a tough year—mentally and physically. You wanted to take a breather. In the end, you bought a ticket too. It took you a long time to choose a country, but once you made your decision, there was no doubt.

You arrived late at night. You only had enough energy for a shower and bed. In the morning, the sun woke you up—soft and warm, as if it were just for you. Breakfast, the sea, the pool, no rush. You did only what you wanted.

That evening, after dinner, you went out to the sun loungers. It was still sunny, but calm. You lay down, put on your sunglasses, and closed your eyes. There weren't many people around: a group of guys playing volleyball, couples with children, and girls like you—relaxing and in no hurry.

You were almost asleep when suddenly - a blow. The ball hit you right.

“What the…” You sat up abruptly, taking off your glasses, in complete shock. "Damn, I'm so sorry!" the guy was already running towards you with the ball in his hands. "I really didn't do it on purpose."

He looked genuinely guilty, even a little confused.

"Are you okay? Am I in pain?" He stopped next to me. “I… I was just scared,” you breathed out. "Then I have to make it up to you," he said with an awkward smile. "Perhaps I should buy you something? A cocktail, ice cream... or just keep you company. I promise no balls this time."