who are you

Mia woke to the sound of waves crashing rhythmically against the shore. The gentle morning breeze carried the scent of salt and flowers through the open balcony doors. She stretched, feeling the warmth of Alexander beside her. His arm was draped protectively over her belly, a subconscious act even in sleep.

She smiled, brushing her fingers through his dark hair. Life on the island had been peaceful so far—almost too peaceful. After everything they had been through, it felt strange to live without looking over their shoulders. But she knew Alexander was still on guard, even if he didn't say it.

Carefully, she slipped out of bed, making her way to the balcony. The view of the endless ocean stretched before her, shimmering under the golden sunrise. She placed a hand on her belly, feeling the faintest movement from their baby. A new life. A new beginning.

A pair of strong arms wrapped around her from behind. "You're up early," Alexander murmured against her neck, his voice still thick with sleep.

"I couldn't sleep," Mia admitted. "It still feels… unreal."

Alexander turned her in his arms, his blue eyes searching hers. "You deserve this peace, Mia. We both do."

She nodded, resting her forehead against his chest. "I know. But I can't shake the feeling that something's coming."

Alexander tensed slightly, but he didn't dismiss her words. Instead, he pressed a kiss to her hair. "Whatever comes, we'll face it together."

---

Later that afternoon, Mia walked along the shoreline, enjoying the warm sand beneath her feet. The island was paradise, but she still found herself longing for a sense of purpose. She had spent so long fighting, surviving—what was she supposed to do now?

Her thoughts were interrupted when she noticed a shadow moving through the palm trees near their villa. She stopped, heart pounding. Was she imagining things? Or was her intuition right all along?

Taking a deep breath, she turned and walked briskly back toward the house, determined not to alarm Alexander without proof. But before she reached the front door, she heard it—a rustling in the trees behind her.

Mia's instincts kicked in. She turned swiftly, ready to defend herself. But as she faced the source of the noise, her breath caught in her throat.

Standing there, half-hidden by the trees, was a man she had never seen before. Tall, with piercing green eyes and an air of danger that sent a chill down her spine.

"You should be more careful," the man said, his voice smooth yet laced with something unreadable. "Even paradise isn't without its dangers."

Mia took a cautious step back. "Who are you?"

The man smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Just someone who's been looking for you."

And just like that, the peace they had fought so hard for began to crack.