Alex just face palmed. while Alice gently reminded Sakura. "You're not supposed to tell people remember."
"Oh! Whoops!"
"Wait! You're telling me that Alex is the mysterious author of the Chronicles of Everwyn?"
"Well, there's no point in hiding it now."
"But was the first book released three years ago, you were only 10 at that time."
"Yeah, I started writing back then in order to help out my family publishing company."
"No way! You guys are messing with me right?"
"Nope the A. and E. in A. E. Verdant stands for Alexander Evergreen. if you need further proof just check the dedication page of the first book."
Coming to a realization she quickly grabbed a copy and read the Dedication page. "To Alice, For being my unwavering companion on the journey of life. here's to the adventures that have shaped us and the countless more waiting on the horizon."
Emma quickly came up to Alice. "There's no way. you're telling me that the protagonist of the Chronicles of Everwyn is named after you?"
Alice couldn't help but blush. "Y-yeah."
Her face went through a myriad of emotions before a sudden realization dawned on her, Emma couldn't contain her laughter.
"Uhmm did we break her?" Sakura asked slightly worried. Just when they were growing concerned a mischievous grin made its way on her face on her face. "So, Alex, you're acting in a movie based on a book you wrote?"
A sheepish smile tugged at his lips. "Well, it's not exactly the same as the movie. I mean, I had to make some changes for the adaptation."
Sakura chuckled, nudging him playfully. "It's pretty cool, though. You're essentially living your own story."
Alexander let out a good-natured sigh. "Yeah, I suppose you could say that. anyway don't tell people I don't want people to think that we got our roles because I wrote the book."
"Don't worry, Alex. Your secret's safe with me." Emma said a teasingly smile still plastered on her face.
As they made their way toward the exit, Emma couldn't resist a playful comment. "So, Alex, any other hidden talents we should know about?"
Alexander rolled his eyes, a grin playing at his lips. "I think I've revealed enough secrets for today."
As the sun began to set, casting warm colors across the sky, Alexander, Alice, Sakura, and Emma found themselves enjoying the vibrant and colorful Venice Beach. The boardwalk was alive with activity, street art adorned the walls, and the soothing sound of the ocean's waves created a peaceful backdrop.
[Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood]
Taking a moment to rest on the sandy shore, Alexander retrieved a ukulele he had been carrying on his back. With a gentle melody that seemed to harmonize with the ocean's rhythm, he began to sing lyrics that floated on the evening breeze. The song had a relaxed, mellow vibe with Alex singing about wanting to explore the world and go on adventures. However, he finds himself on a beach in California which he doesn't enjoy, yet recognizes the beauty in the moment.
The lyrics poetically described intimate details like touching the neck of a lover and holding hands. Alice's eyes sparkled as the vivid imagery and soothing vocals carried her away, and she exchanged a knowing glance with Sakura. The song seemed to encapsulate the tranquility of the beach around them.
There were vivid sensory details about goosebumps, the taste of a lover's tongue, and the sound of the rain outside. The lyrics emphasized the warmth and intimacy between two people in love. As Alexander's voice rose and fell, his fingers danced skillfully over the ukulele's strings, filling the air with a sense of magic.
When the final notes faded, the beach seemed to hold its breath for a moment before erupting in applause from the small crowd that had gathered to listen. As the applause subsided, Emma grinned and quipped, "I was wondering why you were carrying around that ukulele."
Alexander chuckled a hint of bashfulness in his smile. "I guess you never know when inspiration might strike."
"Did you come up with a name for it?" Emma asked her curiosity peeked.
"Hmm... maybe Sweater Weather," Alexander said looking out at the ocean.
With the afternoon sun descended toward the horizon, Emma had one final surprise in store—a visit to the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round. The carousel's whimsical animals and the nostalgic melody of the music transported them back in time, reminding them of the enchantment that could be found in the simplest of things.
As they rode the carousel, Alexander's eyes caught Alice's, and he couldn't help but smile. "You know, today was a good day."
Alice's smile matched his, her gaze warm. "It really has. And to think, we've only scratched the surface of what LA has to offer."
Alex joined the conversation, "Well, I guess that means we'll have to plan more LA explorations in the future."
As they bid farewell to Emma and prepared to head back to their hotel, Alexander, Alice, and Sakura exchanged smiles, their shared day of exploration contained moments that seemed to be filled with its own magic, the camaraderie among the group deepening with every shared experience.
[A/N: If you like the story so far feel free to give a review and throw some powerstones my way!]
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