Chapter 32: Heartbeat

Chapter 32: Chapter 32: Heartbeat

For the entire morning, they were in the collection area of the Granvireya Hotel, looking at artifacts from around the world.

Whether it was paintings, jewelry, or porcelain from the East, Henry provided concise context for each piece.

His range of knowledge was clear, and it showed he had prepared.

From his conversation and his attentiveness to Irene’s comfort, Henry came across as a well-raised, courteous young man.

Irene realized that in neither of her lives had she encountered a peer quite like him.

At noon, Henry invited Irene to lunch at a sea-view restaurant he had reserved.

The restaurant resembled a glass structure over the water. Below the terrace, waves moved gently.

Lights under the glass floor illuminated the sea beneath them, making the walkway striking.

A waiter led them to a window table with a clear view of distant islands against the horizon. At sunset, the scene would be even better.

"This is impressive," Irene said, still watching the water below.

Henry pulled out her chair, the motion practiced and natural. "I was surprised too the first time," he said, smiling as he sat.

"It feels like dining at the edge of the ocean."

He didn’t order immediately. Instead, he described the local specialties.

"The octopus here is caught with ceramic pots, so the texture is firm and sweet," he said, looking at her with enthusiasm.

When the charcoal-grilled octopus arrived, Henry moved his plate closer so she could try it easily.

When Irene hesitated over the wine list, he suggested quietly,

"If you prefer a crisp white, the island Sauvignon Blanc is good. It has a mineral quality, like sea air."

His attention stayed on her, noticing when she needed water, which dishes she liked, and remembering them.

During the meal, he shared local stories about pirates and treasure to keep the conversation going, which made Irene think of Pirates of the Caribbean.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl released in summer 2003, but it was only 1999. Filming it now wouldn’t create a conflict.

The script and concept were manageable; the problem was cost. That film would require over a hundred million dollars. She didn’t have the leverage for that investment yet, and convincing Johnny Depp would be difficult at this stage.

"Irene, is my story dull? You seem distracted," Henry asked, concern in his voice, breaking her thought.

Irene shook her head.

"Just thinking about something. Your stories are great. I like them."

"You know," his voice was softer than the breeze, "compared to those centuries-old antiques, sharing this view with you feels more meaningful."

At that moment, the water under the glass rippled, and Irene felt her composure shift.

After lunch, their dynamic felt closer.

Without discussing it, they began walking along the beach, hand in hand.

For a time, neither spoke. The contact was enough.

Suddenly, a volleyball came toward Irene’s head. Henry pulled her close with one arm and deflected the ball with the other.

Two young people ran over from the right, apologizing.

"Sorry, are you okay? Our friend hit it too hard."

Irene stepped out of Henry’s embrace and patted his arm to show she was fine.

"Be careful. There are kids around. Don’t hurt anyone."

"We will. You two look our age. Want to join our volleyball game?" one of them asked, looking at Henry, who seemed athletic.

Henry said nothing, looking to Irene for her decision.

Irene glanced at her dress and smiled, declining.

"No, thank you. My clothes aren’t right for it."

She turned to Henry. "Do you want to play? I can watch."

"No, I’d rather stay with you." Henry had no intention of leaving Irene for a game with strangers.

"Alright." Seeing his lack of interest, Irene ignored further invitations and led Henry away.

They spent the afternoon on the beach, building sandcastles, collecting shells, and letting waves touch their feet.

Time seemed to slow.

As the sun set, they returned to the main pier.

Irene said goodbye to Henry and was about to board the yacht when he took her hand.

"Tomorrow at ten, here. I’ll teach you to surf." Seeing Irene silent, he added quickly, "If you don’t want to surf, there are other options. The water park is popular..."

"Okay."

Henry paused, surprised, staring at Irene.

Irene laughed. "I’m looking forward to Coach Henry’s lesson. Anything else?"

"N-no, nothing." He didn’t release her hand.

Irene went on her toes, placed her hands on Henry’s shoulders, and their lips met briefly.

"So, were you waiting for this?"

Before she could tease further, Henry pulled her in, one arm around her waist, the other at her neck, and kissed her deeply.

Irene heard a "Whoa" from people nearby.

Henry sensed her distraction and deepened the kiss. Irene stopped thinking about onlookers.

The kiss lasted a while before he released her.

Irene saw his ears were red, though he tried to appear composed.

She touched his cheek and said softly,

"I’ll miss you. See you tomorrow."

Though reluctant, Henry knew to let her go, so he said goodbye.

Irene boarded the boat and signaled the driver. Even as the boat moved away, she could see Henry standing on the pier, watching.

She touched her chest, feeling her heart still beating fast, and admitted that the feeling she hadn’t experienced in two lives was happening now.

It wasn’t bad at all.