Thalia stepped out of the bathroom, stomping her feet lightly. she said, brushing a strand of damp hair from her face. Then he glanced at her. "Are you still mad at me?"
Thalia shook her head with a soft smile. "Why should I be mad at you?"
Thalia's lips curved into a small grin. "I don't care about your past. It's not like I'm entitled to an explanation."
"This is the last day here… in Mexico. Let's explore more
Thalia's eyes softened. he stepped closer, intertwining her fingers with his. Their hands tangled as they stepped outside, the warm morning air carrying the scent of the city and the ocean beyond.
They strolled through the streets hand in hand,
"We're just perfect like this," he murmured. "
And with that, they walked on, hands intertwined, letting the magic of Mexico cradle them
Thalia and Vicious stepped out into the bright morning, the Riviera Maya slowly giving way to the heart of the city. The streets were alive with vendors, musicians, and the scent of fresh pastries and roasted coffee.
"Where to first?" Thalia asked, adjusting the strap of her camera.
"You'll see," Vicious said, smirking, his fingers brushing against hers.
Their first stop was a small artisan market, overflowing with colourful textiles, handcrafted jewellery, and intricate pottery. Thalia was immediately captivated, snapping photos of every corner.
"Look at these colours!" she exclaimed, lifting a vibrant scarf to the sunlight. "They're incredible!"
Vicious watched her, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Are you more interested in the scarves… or me?"
She shot him a playful glare. "Maybe both. Don't get your hopes up."
He leaned closer. "Too late. My hopes are already up."
Next, they wandered into a quiet plaza where street performers entertained the crowd. A young musician strummed a guitar, his voice echoing softly across the cobblestones. Thalia paused to watch, letting the music wash over her, and Vicious slipped an arm around her shoulders.
"You like this kind of thing?" he asked softly.
"I do," she admitted. "It feels… peaceful. Alive."
He nodded, letting her lean against him for a moment, then nudged her with a smirk. "See? You're enjoying yourself, aren't you?"
"Maybe," she said, brushing past him.
They continued down narrow streets lined with colourful murals. Each wall told a story — of history, of dreams, of life. Thalia couldn't resist photographing everyone, occasionally stopping to ask Vicious about the meanings behind the designs.
"Those colours are traditional," he explained. "Blue for wisdom, red for courage, yellow for joy. Locals believe the murals carry the spirit of their ancestors."
"That's beautiful," she whispered, glancing at him.
"Not as beautiful as you," he said quietly, almost under his breath. Thalia flushed and turned her attention back to the murals, snapping another photo.
Afterward, they discovered a small fountain tucked into a lively square. Children ran through the water, laughing, while vendors sold sweet treats nearby. Thalia took two small pastries while vicious paid and she offered a piece to Vicious, who pretended to be offended.
"I deserve the whole thing," he said with a grin.
"You'll get it if you catch me first," she teased, darting away.
He caught her wrist and spins her. "Gotcha," he said, eyes glinting triumphantly.
The day continued with stops at a historic church, a scenic overlook, and quaint cafes, their laughter mingling with the city sounds. Every moment together deepened their connection, each glance and brush of hands carrying unspoken tension.
By late afternoon, the modern district appeared before them, sleek glass reflecting the sun. The mall loomed ahead.
"Ready for round two?" Vicious asked, already walking toward the entrance, a mischievous sparkle in his eyes.
Thalia groaned, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "I guess… I have no choice."
Inside, the cool air and bright lights greeted them. Displays of shoes, bags, and accessories stretched in every direction. Vicious immediately wandered toward a designer store, picking up handbags, wallets, and accessories.
"This one," he said, holding up a sleek black bag. "Perfect for you. And this," he added, grabbing a pair of elegant heels.
Thalia's eyes widened. "Vicious! I can't accept all this. You don't have to buy me—"
"I insist," he interrupted smoothly. "I'm not backing out. You're not saying no."
"I *am* saying no!" she argued, crossing her arms. "It's too much. You shouldn't—"
"I *can*," he said firmly. "And I *will*. Now, come on, help me pick."
Thalia stomped her foot lightly, exasperated. "I refuse! You're ridiculous."
He tilted his head, eyes soft but unwavering. "Thalia… trust me. This isn't about the things. It's about seeing you happy."
She stared at him, conflicted, but the warmth in his eyes softened her resolve.
"Fine," she finally whispered, a reluctant smile tugging at her lips. "But only because… only because you're being stubborn."
He grinned, triumphant. "That's the spirit. Let's go."
The next hour passed with laughter, playful arguments over shoes, bags, and accessories, and constant teasing. Every time she tried to resist, he found a way to convince her — until, by the end, she was carrying the bag which he took from her and offered to carry it for her.
"You really are impossible," she muttered, shaking her head.
"And yet, you're still here."
Thalia's grip on his hand tightened slightly, her brows knitting. "But… what if I don't accept you in the end? What if I… can't?"
Vicious stopped walking, turning to face her fully. His eyes softened, warm and steady, holding hers. He lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it gently.
"Then," he said, his voice low and comforting, "I'll wait. I'll wait as long as it takes. I don't need everything from you right now, Thalia. I just… need a chance to show you what you mean to me."
Her chest tightened, a mixture of relief and emotion bubbling up.
"And even if you don't," he continued, cupping her face "I'll still cherish every moment we've had. Every laugh, every look… every bit of us. Because that's real, too. And that's not going anywhere."
Thalia blinked, her heart softening "You… really mean that?"
"Every word," he murmured, a gentle smile tugging at his lips. "So… whatever happens, we'll face it together, okay?"
She nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. "Okay."
He smiled wider, slipping his arm around her shoulders as they continued walking, their hands still intertwined.