The warmth of the fire flickered against the cool evening air, the scent of roasted fish thick between the gathered survivors.
Conversations buzzed in quiet murmurs, an occasional laugh breaking the air as people settled into their usual spots.
Lucas chewed slowly, eyes drifting across the camp.
Everything felt… normal.
Well, as normal as things could get when stranded on an island.
His gaze landed on Mia, who sat nearby, picking apart her fish with delicate fingers. Strands of her blonde hair fell over her face, catching the glow of the firelight.
She was beautiful.
He'd known it before, of course. Mia was attractive — gorgeous, even. But it wasn't just that.
She had a way about her. The way she laughed, the way she reacted to his teasing, the way she held herself despite everything.
She intrigued him.
And, for once, he didn't just see her as a game to win.
That realization was enough to push him forward.
