Chapter 163: Nicholas’s confession
The dress suited her flawlessly as if it had been designed specifically for her. The delicate floral pattern brought a touch of vibrancy. The halter neckline drew attention to her graceful shoulders, and the V-neck added a hint of allure without being overdone. Her skin glowed warmly in the golden light, and her hair caught the breeze, framing her face like a halo.
Nicholas felt his breath hitch as his gaze lingered on her. She looked radiant, effortlessly stunning, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow down. All he wanted was to pull her close, to hold her tightly, and savor the peace of this moment.
Ava, sensing the intensity of his stare, shifted uncomfortably. A faint blush crept onto her cheeks as she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Shall we go?"
Her words jolted Nicholas from his reverie. He cleared his throat, his expression smoothing into one of composure. "Yes, of course."
He extended his arm slightly, gesturing toward the beach. Ava followed his lead, and together they walked toward the shore.
Ava slipped off her shoes, letting them dangle from her fingers as she walked along the shore. The soft sand yielded beneath her steps, while the gentle waves lapped at her feet. The water was cold but refreshing.
This was a moment she had often imagined — walking along the beach hand-in-hand with Dylan. But Dylan wasn’t there. Yet, a small smile graced her lips. She wasn’t alone. She had a good friend like Nicholas with her.
"When I was a child, Papa used to take me to the beach," Ava said softly, a trace of nostalgia in her voice. "I loved playing in the water, building sandcastles. I’d get so messy, but it was the best time." Her eyes sparkled as memories of her childhood surfaced.
Nicholas stopped mid-step, turning to face her. "When was the last time you visited a beach?"