Their days on the island fell into a blissful rhythm.
In the mornings, they went snorkeling near the coral reefs. The water was so clear that fish shimmered like colorful jewels beneath them.
Ruediger manned the boat himself, bringing Lariette to the perfect place to snorkel.
She laughed as small, curious fish darted past her hands. By her side, he couldn't help but watch the joy on her face more than the sea life itself.
"Careful," she said one afternoon after surfacing beside him, droplets glistening on her wet hair, "Eddy, you're supposed to be looking at the corals, not me."
"I am," he replied with a cheeky grin, "You're part of the view."
She splashed him with seawater, laughing and dodging as he caught her wrist. Far away from the shore, he kissed her under the dazzling sunlight.
