𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘳 10
The weight of the day’s work was bearing down on me, but the "game" Marcus had mentioned wouldn’t leave my mind for a second. What had he meant? Was it just a simple amusement, or did it carry a deeper meaning? There was something behind his distant and cold demeanor, but unraveling it felt impossible.

By late afternoon, the workers had started wrapping up in the field. The sun, nearing the horizon, painted the sky a golden hue. Marcus, as always, was overseeing everything, directing everyone with his stern manner. But I noticed that he kept glancing at me out of the corner of his eye. My heart raced, a strange mix of tension and excitement stirred inside me whenever I was near him.

When the work was finally done, Marcus approached me.

Marcus: "Are you ready?" he asked, his expression still serious.

Rose: "I think so," I replied, a bit hesitantly. My heart was pounding like it was going to burst, but I did my best not to let it show.

Marcus: "Then follow me," he said, slinging his jacket over his shoulder and walking ahead. I followed him in silence. We walked along a path that led from the edge of the field toward the forest. Neither of us spoke a word, but the silence wasn’t uncomfortable—it was laden with unspoken meaning.

Eventually, we reached the shore. As the sun set on the horizon, he sat on a small rock by the water. Gesturing to the spot beside him, he said, "Come here." Though it seemed like a simple invitation, there was a softness in his tone.

I sat down next to him, and Marcus turned his gaze to the horizon. For a while, we didn’t speak at all, just sat there listening to the sound of the waves. That silence conveyed more than words ever could.

Marcus: "You remember the game, don’t you?" he finally asked, turning his eyes toward me.

Rose: "Yes," I said, biting my lip. Curiosity and a slight tension filled me. "But what kind of game is this?" I added.

Marcus gave a slight smile, nodding his head. It was the first time I’d seen him smile, and it...