Third Person’s POV 

 

Winter stepped out of her house, feeling the crisp air and the warmth of the sun on her skin. She wore the cream dress that Karina had given her, its length gracefully falling just below her knees. The brown cardigan draped over her shoulders and the matching belt cinched at her waist accentuated her slim figure, perfectly complementing her short, clipped hair.

As she strolled towards the Aquarium park, Winter couldn't help but sense the attention she was garnering. She is uncomfortable with the stares from some guys. Nevertheless, she couldn't deny that she looked stunning in the outfit Karina had chosen for her.

Pulling out her phone, Winter texted Karina to let her know she was already near. Karina, who claimed to be at the entrance, replied with a flirtatious tone, mentioning how beautiful Winter looked in her dress. Winter, slightly flustered, glanced around to find Karina. Another text came in, guiding her with a playful remark that Karina was on her left.

Time seemed to slow as Winter turned towards her left, and there she was – Karina, with her long braid swaying gracefully. She wore an off-shoulder blue dress wearing light makeup but still emphasizing her natural beauty that perfectly complemented her radiant personality. Winter felt her heart racing as she took in the sight. Karina's usual bright smile lit up her face, making everything else fade into the background.

Winter couldn't help but be captivated by the moment, the world around them seemingly quiet as they locked eyes. The exchange of glances held an unspoken understanding, and the realization of the connection between them lingered in the air. 

 

Karina's voice echoed with excitement as she announced, "We're here!" upon entering the bustling Aquarium park. However, Winter couldn't help but notice the long line of people ahead, making her thoughts immediately gravitate towards the wait they had ahead of them.

"There are so many people," Winter remarked.

Karina, undeterred by the crowd, replied with a cheerful grin, "It's summer, Winter! Everyone wants to enjoy the aquarium during their break."

As Karina tried to pull Winter towards, Winter gently tugged her back, a subtle resistance in her movements. She reached into her bag, pulled out some money, and handed it to Karina. Winter insisted, "You don't have to pay for everything, Karina."

Karina blushed slightly, caught off guard by Winter's gesture, and protested, "But Winter, I already said that it’s all on me. I wanted to treat you today"

Pulling Karina closer, Winter whispered, "Take it. It's about my ego and integrity. I want to be fair."

Karina chuckled, a warmth spreading across her face. "You're too considerate, Winter."

Insisting on fairness, Winter added, "Consider it my contribution to our date. Now, let's go” 

 

Winter’s POV

 

"Looks like there are a lot of this to see huh?" Karina said while looking at the brochure of the Aquarium Park 

“....you never come here before?” I curiously asked. 

“Nope.” She replied quickly.

“Back in my Junior year our school had a field trip here but I didn’t go…” as she continued, “I think I remember going to an aquarium park with my family at some point but it wasn’t this one.” 

That’s surprising. I would think Karina would come here often since she has a lot of friends and all. 

Maybe it was narrow-minded of me to assume that. 

“This really is quite full,” Karina said then grabbed my right hand 

“K-Karina my hand” too surprised at her action 

“Oh sorry! I just thought it would be better if we held hands” she explained. 

“This makes you feel more like we’re a couple don’t you think?” tightening her hold on my hands. “It could be a good reference for your novel, right?” 

“I see” now holding her hand too after letting a sigh. 

My novel…

I really don’t feel like writing anymore, but….

I found myself captivated by the colorful marine life and the enchanting sight of Karina beside me. The ambient blue glow of the exhibits cast a surreal light on Karina's features, illuminating the genuine excitement in her sparkling eyes.

Karina stood at the shark tank and emitted a genuine smile. As I observed her with a sense of wonder, I realized that Karina's joy was like a radiant aura that brightened the entire space. The soft curves of Karina's lips formed an ethereal smile, reflecting the sheer delight she took in the majestic creatures gliding through the water.

I couldn't help but marvel at the scene—Karina, enraptured by the underwater world, her eyes dancing with childlike wonder. The warmth of Karina's hand, firmly clasped in mine, resonated with a comforting presence. I felt a sense of tranquility as if I had stumbled