Chapter 87

Leah's POV

As the sun rises over the rolling hills, a gentle breeze carries the sweet scent of blooming flowers and salty sea water through the air. The sound of roosters crowing and dogs barking filled the tranquil atmosphere of the small port village on the continental side of the bay, where life seemed to move at a slower pace.

Darren parked his bike on the side of the road, and waved at a boy who was staring at us curiously at a distance.

"Come here." Darren prompted him.

The boy hesitated and shifted back a bit.

"You can touch my bike if you want." Darren winked at him and smiled.

The boy ran forward and stretched out his tiny hand, stroking the leather surface of the bike.

"Can you keep an eye on my bike? I'll go to the island and come back later," Darren said.

The boy stared at Darren with a frown. Then, he turned his head toward me, stretching out his arms.

"Do you want a hug from me?" I melted.

The boy tiptoed to stretch out his arms toward me even higher.

I chuckle