Habit of Teasig.

We returned to the house, where Lance settled in to tackle some office tasks. I took it upon myself to prepare a spread of snacks and coffee, hoping to make his work a bit more enjoyable.As I set the tray beside him, a rush of conflicting thoughts flooded my mind. Lance appeared so at ease and genuine today, revealing facets of his personality that were both innocent and endearing. Despite my attempts to maintain a professional demeanor, I couldn't help but notice his undeniable charm. (My Mind He's always been handsome and charming, but I mustn't let myself get carried away. We're just contracted partners, after all. Stay focused, Kiera.) I shook my head lightly, trying to dispel these distracting thoughts.Lance, engrossed in his laptop, glanced up and caught me staring. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, he remarked, "You seem captivated. Better wipe that drool before it reaches the floor."Startled, I instinctively reached for a nonexistent droplet, only to realize he was teasing me yet again. Suppressing a smile, I handed him the steaming cup of coffee."Am I really that irresistible, or are you just mesmerized by my work ethic?" he quipped, a playful grin tugging at his lips. I chose to remain silent, not wanting to encourage his teasing further.Deciding to give him some space, I announced, "I'll head back to the beach while you work."Returning to the shoreline, I settled onto the soft sand, facing the endless expanse of the sea. The gentle breeze whispered secrets of distant lands, coaxing my mind to drift like a boat on tranquil waters. I closed my eyes, letting the symphony of nature's sounds lull me into a peaceful reverie.As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the world in dusky hues, I stirred from my impromptu nap on the beach. The first thing I noticed was the deepening darkness around me, punctuated by the twinkling stars above.(My Mind Ohhhh!... How could I sleep here for such a long time?)Fumbling for my phone, I blinked at the screen. 9:00 p.m. already? I leaped up, intending to head back indoors, when a figure approached through the dim light. It was none other than Lance, his expression a mix of concern and annoyance."Do you have any idea what time it is? You can't just wander off and fall asleep like this," he chided, his worry evident beneath the stern tone."Sorry, I lost track of time. I was just about to head back. Are you done with your work?" I deflected, trying to lighten the mood."Yeah, just finished. Noticed you were missing," he admitted, his irritation softening."Haha, so I'm only memorable when you're done working?" I teased, hoping to diffuse any lingering frustration."Maybe... Sorry for leaving you alone for so long and not realizing sooner," he said, enveloping me in a warm hug.We strolled toward the water's edge, the cool breeze ruffling our hair. A mischievous impulse took hold, and before I knew it, I had playfully shoved him into the gentle waves, laughter bubbling between us."You're in for it now!" he warned, splashing after me as I darted away._ROSE_...