The sun was gently setting, casting a golden glow over the fortress, and Cliff found himself almost enjoying Violetta's constant presence by his side. Her mischievous smile and boundless energy brightened their walk in ways he'd never expected to appreciate.
Every new stall, every cobbled alley provided her an excuse for a quick tease, a cleverly disguised hint, delighting Violetta as she saw Cliff's cheeks flush at each provocation.
They stopped at a fruit stand, and Violetta, with a playful grin, held up a bright red cherry, raising an eyebrow as she held it near her lips. "Go on, try it. It's sweet. Consider it a taste of what I might offer you."
