It was Evan who suggested it.
"Truth or dare," he said suddenly, leaning back on his elbows. "Classic. No escape. "
Lina clapped. "Yes! Beach rules apply
Alexander raised an eyebrow. "This feels dangerous."
"That's the point," Evan said cheerfully.
They sat in a circle as the sky darkened, the sound of waves filling the pauses between them.
"Cynthia," Lina began sweetly. "Truth or dare?"
Cynthia hesitated. "Truth."
"What's the one thing you didn't expect about today?"
She glanced briefly at Alexander. "How easy it would feel."
Alexander looked away, jaw tightening slightly.
"Alexander," Evan said next. "Truth or dare?"
"Truth," Alexander replied calmly.
"Who is the most annoying person you hace ever met", Evan asked
" Evan brown", Alexander said before body burst out laughing like they are mad.
The group fell quiet.
Aunt Veronica smiled softly.
"Lina," Cynthia said quickly. "Truth or dare?"
"Dare," Lina said without hesitation.
"Go stand in the water until a wave touches your knees."
Lina groaned but did it anyway, laughing when the cold water shocked her.
"Evan," Alexander said. "Truth or dare?"
"Truth," Evan said cautiously.
"Do you ever pretend not to notice things that are obvious?"
Evan blinked. "All the time."
Cynthia felt her pulse quicken.
Aunt Veronica leaned forward. "My turn. Cynthia—truth."
Cynthia swallowed. "Okay."
"Do you believe timing matters more than feelings?"
Cynthia thought carefully. "I think timing tests feelings."
Alexander met her eyes.
The game continued—lighter questions, playful dares—but something had shifted.
When it ended, they sat quietly, listening to the ocean.
Alexander stood. "Walk with me?"
Cynthia nodded.
They walked along the shore, close but not touching.
"You didn't have to answer that honestly," he said.
"I didn't want to lie," she replied.
She smiled. "You invited me here."
He stopped walking. She did too.
The waves rolled in behind them.
And for the first time, neither of them stepped away.