I decided to call Zack and tell him I couldn't study with him today. It wasn't a lie, really. I did need a break from all the schoolwork. And besides, I wasn't sure if I even had a future with him anymore. I had to focus on the present, and the present was Leo.
As we walked through the city, Leo showed me all his favorite places. It was like getting a private tour from a local. We went to a small coffee shop, a record store, and a vintage clothing boutique. I felt like I was in a movie, and Leo was my handsome, adventurous leading man.
At lunchtime, we went to a restaurant on the beach. It was a bit more expensive than I was used to, but Leo insisted on paying for both of us. He said that it was his treat, and that I shouldn't worry about it.
Over lunch, we talked about everything under the sun. From our favorite books and movies to our childhood dreams and aspirations. It was like we had known each other for a lifetime, and I couldn't imagine spending my day with anyone else.
After lunch, we went down to the beach. The sun was shining, and the ocean looked so inviting. Leo suggested we go for a swim, but I was hesitant. I wasn't wearing a swimsuit, and I didn't want to make a fool of myself.
But Leo didn't seem to care. He took off his shirt and shorts, revealing a pair of bright red swimming trunks. "Come on in, Aphrodite. The water's not too cold," he said, splashing me with a wave.
I giggled and shook my head. "I don't have a swimsuit, Leo. I can't swim like this."
But Leo just grinned and took my hand. "Who said anything about swimming? We'll just wade in a bit, get our feet wet. It'll be fun, I promise."
And so we did. We waded in the shallow water, letting the waves crash around us. Leo held my hand the whole time, and I felt safe and happy in his presence.