The silence that followed wasn't awkward. It was full. Full of all the things they weren't sure how to say yet.
Lydia finally whispered, "You don't know how much that means to me. And I won't let you forget it."
Ethan let out a breath, almost like a laugh, but it shaky. "Good. Because sometimes I forget easily." He lifted her hand and pressed a light kiss to her knuckles. "So remind me."
They locked fingers in both hands and after a few seconds, Lydia nudged him lightly. "So, what exactly do people even do at your top-secret Alpha beach? Please tell me it's not just for unpacking generational trauma."
Ethan's smile came back. "Swim until our muscle ache," he said counting off on his fingers. "Hunt when the moon calls us. Feast around bonfire until dawn." His eyes moved slowly
