Is there even a thing called relaxing where I can just sit back, kick up my feet, and enjoy a good book? Let’s imagine for a moment…

I’m on a beach, the sand warm beneath my sandals, and the breeze gently brushing against my skin. I’m wearing a white sun hat that perfectly matches the wrap tied around my waist.

I’m not much of a drinker, but I figured, why not? I stopped by the beach bar to indulge a little. In my glass, there’s a blue liquid that mirrors the sparkling water before me. Two tiny umbrellas—one light pink, the other dark—peek out of the glass.

I take a sip, dabbing the corners of my mouth, feeling a little fancy. I stroll along, book in hand, sunglasses on, my bikini top knotted securely at my back. I grab my multicolored beach towel from the chair and then I see him.

He’s noticed me noticing him, but I turn away. I’m here to relax, not to entertain a connection.

I set my drink on the small round table beside me, along with my sunglasses.
Oh no, he’s looking again. He’s tall and gorgeous—nope, not going there. This book is my only focus right now.

Page one… but he seems nice, and it’s been a while since I’ve met someone like that.
Page two… maybe I should give him a chance? How do I even know he’s interested?
Page three… is he still looking? Oh my goodness, he is!
Page four… I’ll let him come to me. I’m worth it. I’ll talk to him if he walks over.
Page five, page six, page six again… why isn’t he coming over?

Maybe he doesn’t want to interrupt my reading. It’s fine, the water is beautiful today. The sand is clean, perfectly complementing the sparkling ocean.

I’ll sneak one more glance and leave it at that. I’ve been waiting forever to get into this book.
There. That’s it—wait, is he… waving me over? Unconventional, but okay.

He’s perfect—gorgeous smile, great hair, and those eyes—I could get lost in those eyes.
“Hi, I’m Paige,” I say, extending my hand, eager for his touch.

But then, two cold fingers tap my shoulder from behind.

“Excuse me, ma’am,” a woman’s voice says.

I’m an idiot. I should’ve just read my book. I’ve been waiting.

“Sorry, I’ll leave,” I mutter, knowing there’s nothing to say that would make this any less awkward.

At least now I can finally relax. Back to page six—wait, what did I even read? Fine, back to page one.

“Hello, Paige, nice to meet you. I’m Adam. My sister insisted I come introduce myself.”

What a perfect day to relax. 😌