Chapter Text
Opportunity doesn’t always come by more than once, so it’s important to take what’s ahead of you in order to see future spoils. That was one of the first lessons Vivian remembered Hugo teaching her. Even back then, he couldn’t help stretch out what could’ve been two words. Don’t hesitate. Though easier said than done, along the way, it became second nature. Trial and error has slowly made her into the person she wanted to be; brought her to the people she admired most! Now here she was! Standing at the entrance to Fantasy Resort with only one thing on her mind.
“This was a mistake! How’d I get myself into this!?” Her mind raced, recalling the moment of her doom.
xxxxxx
“Pleeeeaaaasssse, Lord Phaethon!” She clasped together tightly. “Let’s go to the beach while I have time off!”
“The beach?” Wise set aside one of the temple brooms and leaned against the entrance. “Won’t it be a little chilly?”
“There’s supposed to be a warm front coming in! It’ll make even an autumn day like this feel like the final days of summer!” Vivian crossed her eyes and looked at one of her heroes with fierce determination. “Or are you fine with having summer memories that don’t include me?”
“I didn’t say anything like that!”
“Hmph! Sure feels like it. I get that you’re training hard but I thought I’d at least get more text messages. Especially considering how you asked me to check on the video store occasionally. I’ve made sure not even a mouse could get in uninvited.”
“And I really appreciate it. Belle and I both do.” He smiled through the pressure. It’s true they’ve been a bit busier than expected. It’s only natural Vivian would get upset. “We can go to the beach all day tomorrow. How’s that sound?”
“Aaalllll day? That’s a bold promise from someone so popular. One text from someone more important than me and you’ll be off to do what you do best, apologizing.”
“Hey now, you’re making me sound unreliable!”
Her head turns up at him. “Oh no~ quite the opposite. Phaethon is so reliable that nobody could possibly hope to have all their attention. Especially someone as average as me.”
“She’s gone full passive aggressive mode...”
Wise could tell her to stop before he gets upset too, but he really didn’t want to watch her ears droop and lips quiver as she tried apologizing.
“Vivian…” He got closer, until looking up was her only option. Wise gently held both her hands and smiled “I promise tomorrow will be about us. Belle can handle things here for a day. So please, cheer up.”
xxxxxxx
“Even thinking about it drives me crazy! Why’d he have to get so close!!” She frantically fanned her rosy cheeks. “C’mon Vivian! Get a grip! This is your chance! An entire day with-”
“Ready!” Wise closed the trunk door and put the bag of beach supplies over his shoulder. “You were right about the warm front. This feels good.”
“I’m just happy it held out. The cold doesn’t bother me much, but even I would get goosebumps if the wind hit me while in this swimsuit.”
The swimsuit in question was quite something to see. The pastel purple and pink matched Vivian’s style. The frills around her waist must be a new trend he hasn’t bothered to keep up with, again. Despite the warm day, Wise could see Vivian still getting chilly later on. The midsection was see-through and intricate in design, with her legs showing enough power and grace to make a pro gymnast jealous.
“See something interesting?” Vivian said, catching Wise’s gaze. The boy quickly looked forward and began walking. She couldn’t help but giggle softly. “Hehe, looks like even he can be bashful.”
Knowing he found charm in her outfit was a weight off her chest. She put in a lot of work finding something this cute! A compliment or two wouldn’t hurt. Perhaps even three if he was feeling generous. Four also sounded lovely, but not as good as five. That wouldn’t be too much in the span of a day. It’s not like it was six. Now that might be a little much. Vivian doesn’t know if her heart could take that many. Heaven forbid he’d go for seven…
Be it his introverted nature or taking her own preferences into account, she followed Weiss over to a cozy spot on the left side of the beach away from foot traffic. The warm sand was firm just enough to support her heels but not wet enough to be its own hassle. Wise handed her the giant red beach umbrella to set into the sand as he spread out a soft pink beach towel and dark blue one for himself. Too bad they weren’t sharing one, but at least he put them right beside one another.
“Maybe he doesn’t mind cuddling? There aren’t too many people around.” Her heart fluttered so much it made her sway.
“That should stop sand from immediately getting on top!” Wise nodded with pride. He put the cooler right behind both of their towels for easy access while placing the bag on his side just in case someone tried to steal it. “Let’s hope nobody tries anything. I can save the bag easily enough, but I probably can’t save them for Vivian.”
“He’s being so meticulous. As expected from my Phaethon~” Vivian opened the umbrella and took her rightful spot literally right next to him.
Wise could’ve chosen any spot and she would’ve been happy, but Vivian noticed he clearly had an eye for scenery. The light danced on calm waves that echoed its power with every crash against the shore.
She looked at him with curiosity. “Was something filmed here?”
“Hmm? Why do you ask?
“This spot feels film worthy, as if you knew it would be stunning.”
“Back when we were getting the resort up and running, Belle and I ended up walking the property countless times making sure it wasn’t bugged. This spot at night is something else. The moon really looks like it’s coming out of the water.”
Wonder hung off every word as he recalled the sight. Vivian rested the side of her head on her knees as she listened happily. The sound of waves couldn’t compare at all.
“Sounds like you’ve made quite a few memories; your training must be going well then?”
“It’s…been eventful.” He sighed, really taking a moment to think back at everything up until today. “Honestly it’s been kinda depressing.”
“Slow progress?”
“Eehhh? Not really. I haven’t been as quick of a learner as Belle. She has a real knack for the summit arts, but I was primarily talking about the people I’ve met. Learning their life stories has been so sad! It’s hard to keep composure at times.” Seed in particular kept coming to mind. That was a rough experience.
Vivian watched in real time how Wise tried to process his feelings. “You really are a bleeding heart.” She muttered. The faces he made learning her past weren’t too different. “You care, so people flock to you. It’s a wonderful gift. Still, don’t run yourself ragged.”
Wise looked at her directly, baffled by that statement. He couldn’t help but smile cheekily. “That’s a little funny coming from you. I vividly remember someone trying to defy fate to the point of taking an ether blast.”
Vivian’s face lit up like a firecracker “That was a life or death situation! Please don’t bring it up again.” She covered her face with both hands. Not that it mattered with her ears being dark red.
“Even before that, you were always doing your best with others because of what you saw. Honestly, we owe you. Belle and I wouldn’t be here training if it wasn’t for you, literally.”
That wasn’t untrue. Vivian never thought much about why they agreed to get trained. Bringing her back from the brink of death isn’t something to be brushed off. Of course they would want answers and training. Even if it meant leaving New Eridu. Though she couldn’t be too upset. Her fingers opened up for her to catch a glimpse of her hero; specifically his open jacket. Clearly Wise has been diligent in his efforts. Which brought her to a certain idea she had planned all night.
“Y’know…despite it being autumn, sunny days like this can still be dangerous without sunscreen. It would be such a shame to burn~” it might be a little heavy handed, but he’d disagree in the face of rational logic.
“You’re right. Especially warm days like this. It wouldn’t hurt to put on sunscreen.”
“Yes! He took the bait! Now I can use the bottle and offer to do his back for him!” All according to plan! That was until Vivian snapped out of her mental victory and noticed not only was the bag on his side, but Wise was already holding the bottle and looking right at her.
“I’ll get your back.”
“…Huh?” Vivian squeaked.
“You don’t want to get sunburned, right?” He opened the bottle and smiled earnestly.
Needless to say, Vivian miscalculated. Instead of Wise taking off his jacket, she was now the target of her own plan! “I…uhh.” Every word in the dictionary failed her. Now she was really grateful for the private spot. “Umm right. Just give me a moment.”
Wise watched her guide her lavender hair neatly over her shoulders. He was waiting for her to turn her back towards him, but he had also miscalculated the situation. His heart nearly stopped as Vivian’s fingers fiddled with the metal buckles under her chest, loosening the entire top portion. All his words were trapped in his throat and nearly came out as a yell when she undid the collar. Before he could however, Vivian laid flat on her stomach. Both buckles supporting the bow on her lower back was undone and allowed her to fold the bottom part of her swimsuit down; she then tugged the cloth at her hips carefully to expose as much of her back as possible.
“R-Ready…”
Wise remained silently. A bold thing to do considering where it’s gotten him. He was planning on doing what was mainly exposed! Now he had more or less a full back to work on. Saying something now would probably earn Vivian’s anger. That swimsuit was more complex than he realized.
Not wanting to live in any more awkward silence, he put one leg over to the other side of her hips. Once again, Wise was left completely impressed by Vivian. Though petite, her hard work showed in every muscle and sculpt around her shoulders blades.
“I need to train harder.” He squeezed sunblock into his hands and started with her shoulders.
“Eeep!” Vivian’s entire body jumped.
“Is it cold?”
“Y-Yeah.” She lied. How could anything be cold in those warm hands?! “Calm down! He’s touched you before. Don’t act like a kid!”
A task easier said than done. His thumbs traced the outline of where her collarbones would be from behind, massaging the cream in gently before working on the outline of her shoulder blades. Both thumbs circled back up the inside, fighting against some tension around the upper vertebrae.
“She really is toned.” He couldn’t stop admiring physical strength.
Vivian was losing a mental fight however. This felt more like a massage than anything, and she was doing her damnedest to remain silent as Wise’s hands slid to the outside of her frame, outline her figure meticulously on the way down. Her own involuntary raised up for him to grip. Each thumb rested in the dimples on her lower back; working their way outward before rubbing more sun screen up her spine with his palms. Her body might as well have been wet clay, molding completely to his touch and threatening to fall apart every time his fingers ran along her torso. Even what felt like a moment of reprieve was just another struggle as strong hands wrapped around her nape, gently sinking their fingers into the delicate flesh.
Wise made sure her skin glistened and felt soft. With the sunblock completely rubbed in, he removed his hands from her body.
“That should do. All set.”
“…..”
“Vivian?” He poked her but gained no response. Wise gave her a gentle shake before hearing ghastly moans.
“Uuuuuuueeeeggggghhhhhhhh~”
“Vivian!?” Now it was time to worry…
xxxxxxx
No thoughts could linger. The phantoms of soft words and warmth seemed to blur everything; surrounding Vivian like a dense fog as she drifted. If it wasn’t for the sound of crashing waves, she might’ve stayed like this for longer. Waves…waves; right, she was by the water. Sitting on the-
“I’m at the beach!” Her eyes suddenly opened and she sat up immediately, seeing the water she heard in her slumber. Although…the beautiful blue view she remembered had turned a deep orange with splatters of pinks and purple. Sitting up quickly caused a familiar jacket to fall down into her lap. Her mind still didn’t know what to think as she stared aimlessly until another sound caught her attention.
Cheap ceramic glass clinked together on her left and turned her head. It was none other than Wise, holding a plate with cut sandwiches and a bottle of juice he had brought in the cooler. Finally, Vivian’s train of thought found the tracks.
“…I PASSED OUT!?” She was already blushing and hiding her shame before hearing the answer.
“The heat was on the rise. You gave me quite the scare. You were burning up and acted like everything was spinning. Thankfully you calmed down not long after, but you were pretty tired.”
“It wasn’t the heat!” She wanted to scream to the sky and yell at herself. Vivian felt the plate rest on her lap as she had her crisis.
“You really should eat something. I also packed some fruit if you-”
“Ehuh~” Sniffles leaked out from her lips, turning into whimpers as she fought back tears. “I’m sorry…”
“Huh? Vivian, you’re…sorry?”
“The sun is setting! We’ve been here for hours, haven’t we?” Her fists balled up in frustration. “After bugging and criticizing not spending enough time with me, I found a way to ruin it! At this point, you should’ve been doing other things instead of looking after me.”
Wise…didn’t know what to say at first. He just let Vivian express herself for a moment, her cries rivaling the ocean.
“…I never mind looking after you.” He finally said, looking at the distant waves. “So things didn’t go exactly as planned. That’s okay. Like I said, I’d stay with you all day. You haven’t wasted my time at all so please don’t think that. We’re okay.”
Her whimpering slowly began to die down. Vivian looked at Wise and received a comforting smile as he handed her a water bottle. Silently, she took it. Best not to worry him further.
“I’m still sorry.” She bit into her sandwich sadly. Not even the delicious flavor helped. “It must’ve been so boring.”
“Not really. I fought a fair amount of seagulls trying to steal you and the food away. Plus there were plenty of surfers.”
“Surfers tried to steal me?” Her voice trailed off in weak confusion.
“What? N-No. I mean in the water.” He chuckled. “They were nice to watch.”
“Ohh. Right.” Vivian sighed again, attempting to shake off her attitude. He said it was fine, so it was. Wise wouldn’t lie to her.
“Still feeling down?”
“I really wanted to spend all the time with you I could.” She pouted. Her fingers tore off a piece of crust, leaving it behind on the plate. “I miss you.” She confessed.
“I’ve missed you too, Vivian.” He watched her scarlet eyes dazzle like refined gems. “I’m happy you wanted to spend time with me. How we spent it really didn’t matter to me. We could’ve stayed at Random Play or done VR. A calm nap on the beach isn’t bad. You needed the rest.”
“Lord Phaethon…” her lip quivered. “Don’t make me cry again~”
“Hehe, my bad. Maybe that was a bit too sentimental?”
“No, I liked it. You’re sweet to me, and caring. It’s who you are.” A helpful hand whenever needed. It’s what she loved about him. Vivian felt her heart calm down and was able to smile again. Although, thinking about how he helped, a new thought came to her that blocked out the rest.
“Lord Phaethon?” She looked him directly in the eyes. “My swimsuit is back on.”
Thank goodness for the waves. Any quieter and this moment would get more awkward. Wise could feel himself start to blush so he looked at the water again.
“I didn’t see anything.” He defended quickly.
“Then why can’t you look at me?”
His defenses were shit. “Ummm.”
“So you did see?” She asked bluntly.
“….Yeah.”
“Did you like them?” Her question gave him whiplash so badly that he looked at her again. “Well? My boobs, did you like them?”
“I…was pretty occupied with you passing out. I saw them when I was figuring out the buckles, but I wouldn’t say I was looking.” His slightly better defense seemed to work. Vivian appeared to have accepted the answer.
“Makes sense.” She looked at the water, a little disappointed. Oh what she wouldn’t give to see his face. She wasn’t the biggest, but she found her body pretty cute. Given his earlier reaction to the swimsuit in general, Wise held some interest in it.
Today had not gone as planned. Though it was okay, Vivian couldn’t help but look around. A little more of the left side of the beach, just a bit into the water, rock formations were plentiful and made for good picture opportunities, or cover… Her heart began to flutter again. Vivian knew she couldn’t salvage everything, but there were memories to still make if she dared to take the chance.
“What would he think of me?” Her face grew red again. Daring to wonder, Vivian stood up. “Can we take a walk? I wanna go over there.
“Sure. Couldn’t hurt to stretch our legs.” He stood and began matching Vivian’s pace.
Now Wise was by no means oblivious, but not even he could understand the depths of a young woman’s resolve; especially someone like Vivian. At best, he could read The Sons of Caleydon and Pubsec. At worst, he was deciphering Seed and Yuzuha. Vivian somehow danced on a fine line between that spectrum and that made him a tiny bit anxious.
“We’re headed towards the rocks. Is she planning on making a move?” Now he’s glad he didn’t put onions or pickles on the sandwiches. He’s no stranger to kissing, but getting put on the spot made him feel the pressure. “Don’t get ahead of yourself. This is still just a walk. A peaceful walk.”
Said walk led them behind the rocks alright. Vivian’s feet stopped along with Caelus’s heart. Welp…there was no doubt. She had an eye for flair though. The backdrop of the water looked better here than even where they sat. Vivian stood in front of the sun, eyes and face matching the dusk like an oil painting.
“Lord Ph- Wise? Could you…close your eyes? Please?”
Nobody could ignore such a heartfelt request. Wise closed his eyes and waited patiently. At first, it was calming. Given her boldness, Wise had expected Vivian to not hesitate the moment he shut his eyes. However, nothing immediately happened. Perhaps she was hyping herself up? He could definitely relate to that.
Another thirty seconds passed before slim fingers ran down his left hand, guiding it forward to something soft and incredibly warm. Wise wanted to think nothing of it, but an obvious thought bombarded his mind.
“This feels too low to be her face…”
“You can open your eyes~”
But did he want to? Didn’t matter. His eyelids obeyed before he could ponder anything. There she was, still standing before him. Only now the buckles were undone again and the top flowing in the faint breeze. Sure enough, his hand was cuffing supple flesh while his eyes looked upon pale pink and puffy nipples. Whatever shade of red Vivian’s eyes were, Wise was positive his face was redder. He couldn’t move or think at all, but he did know he owed Seed and Yuzuha an apology. Vivian didn’t dance on a line between them. She was the entire spectrum.
Wise tried to form words to some degree. “Wh-What are you…”
“You said you didn’t get a good look earlier. Well…I…want you to look. At them, at me…”
He could feel her heart pounding like a drum. Vivian didn’t look away, taking his other hand to grasp her other breast. Her fingers squeezed his gently, making both of them gasp wistfully. The ocean never felt louder than in this moment, and the water that reached their feet felt freezing in comparison to their boiling blood.
“This is a lot.” Four words that summed up Wise’s myriad of thoughts.
Vivian was getting a tad nervous. “Do you hate this?”
“Hate is the furthest thing from my mind. I’m just…caught off guard hehe.” It was as if his hands refused to move away. “This is…You’re so…
She clung to every word in hope and fear. A moment of weakness made her eyes look down in worry; however, Vivian found confirmation in her advances. Where words failed Wise, his body answered honestly. There was no hiding the outline of his interests. A glance back up served to give more clarity in the form of his avoidant gaze and blushing face. This was a tipping point. One she wanted to see through. Vivian took another gamble, allowing her knees to rest on shifting sands and hands rest on his waistband.
Clearly not speaking wasn’t an option! Wise forced himself out of a stun. “Hey, don’t push yourself. We don’t have to-”
“I want to.” She confessed, her voice trembling. “I know it might sound weird and sudden, but I really want to do this for you. For myself, so…if you really don’t want this, stop me now. For real.”
His hands clammed up, already missing the warmth. Vivian looked up at him for his answer. Of all the ways to see her right now. Any concern wasn’t strong enough to deny his other feelings and urges. He made no effort to stop her, and let her fingers from untying the neon string around his trunks.
Anxiousness gave away to anticipation, a deep sense of thrill and yearning to get rid of this unpleasant tension between them. A slow orig down to his thighs freed what Vivian was looking for, striking her in the nose as it sprang up. Her pupils became the size of dinner plates as she was suddenly staring down an agonizing erection that was already playing with her senses. She dared to grasp it gently with her right, feeling its heat and leaving more than enough for her second hand to hold.
“It’s bigger than my t-” Her mouth shut immediately, realizing what she was about to admit. Vivian’s eyes darted upwards to Wise to see him looking away as if he wasn’t paying attention to everything. “Well, I suppose there’s no use worrying about that now.”
With nothing left to do but to do it, Vivian steadied her breathing, and leaned forward with her lips parted. If holding her chest felt warm, this was a blaze. A slow, intense heat washed over Wise, controlling his hips and stifling his breath as the underside of his shaft received a tender rub at the base and slick tongue working its way from the tip. Wise brought his right arm back to brace himself against the rock as tender licks lovingly washed over his cock. The lips he had thought were aiming for a kiss were now wrapped halfway around a rigid erection that obeyed the woman’s touch.
Perhaps with more practice and time, Vivian would dare to go deeper, but she didn’t want to risk spoiling the mood or causing concern. For now her hands made up for where she felt lacking, and there wasn’t a second she didn’t spare an opportunity to keep him nice and slick. It was the furthest thing from etiquette but she couldn’t care less. She never had expectations for this moment, yet by all accounts, Wise tasted better than she could imagine. She could his pleasure dripping on tongue and running down her throat, urging her for more. Convincing her body to crave this new flavor in every aspect.
“Vivian~” he quivered.
She’s never said her name like that before. She didn’t know her name could be said like that. Not with vile or simple kindness, but an undeniable need that played with her heart and made her core ache. Wise’s flavor became more prominent, consistently leaking. Her tongue couldn’t help itself. It just had to roll itself over the tip again and again, making him strain her hands.
“Uuunngg!” Wise forced his mouth shut, trapping moans in his throat and making his nostrils flare. His eyes had fallen shut for what felt like a blissful eternity. He wasn’t sure how long he’d hold on. Before he could find out, those lips slid off him and exposed his flesh to the crisp air of the approaching night.
When he opened his eyes to learn why, Vivian was shakily rising to her feet out of breath.
“Forgive me, Wise. I really thought I could hold back, but I just can’t!” She labored.
Wise watched her walk closer, then passed him. Without a word, Vivian rested her left hand on the rock formation. Wise watched her body bend at the waist, her right hand running up the outside of her leg until her fingers hooked underneath the bottom of her swimsuit. His entire body jolted seeing her pull the damp fabric aside and revealing dripping, quivering, pink lips. Somehow he managed to pry his eyes up to see Vivian looking over her shoulder. Her intense, lustful red eyes burrowing into his with a silent and loud plea. “Have me.”
There was nothing worth thinking about. Wise approached and took hold of her right hip. Vivian let him take over, bringing both her hands and face forward as she felt the strength in her knees get tested.
It was as if lightning danced through her nerves; the feeling of her body opening up for Wise was all consuming to the point she couldn’t help but laugh through bliss. This was nothing like a silicon toy. Everything about this was alive; radiating warmth and prodding on its own. Vivian was practically choking on her own gasps as Wise slowly pushed deeper and left an impression she wouldn’t soon forget. Right now her hands could probably crumble the rock in front of her if she tried hard enough. The heat began to drag its way out, coaxing her body to push backwards to chase it, but there was no need. One move was all it took before it came barreling inside to the very back of her pussy.
“Naaaghhh!” Her knees were already knocked against each other, but Wise didn’t seem to care. His hand kept her body in place, gripping it firmly as he gave her another thrust filled with hunger and measured strength. “Yes…Wise, YES~”
There was nothing holding him back. Not a thing to think about as soaked walls squeezed like it was jealous of her mouth for going first. Honestly, knowing Vivian had toys was a gigantic weight off his shoulders. There wasn’t even the slightest hint of blood. Absolutely no reason to hold back. For once he was going to allow himself to simply feel, eyes fixated on how her body swallowed him and left a creamy white that dripped into low tide like sea foam. The waves may have drowned out their bodies' desires to others, but for them, it was the only thing they could hear aside from burning lungs that didn’t give a damn.
Vivian shivered from Wise's touch. The weight of his body pressed down as he hunched over. The left hand he didn’t use immediately returned to her chest, squeezing the catalyst for all this and turning his thrusts so wild that Vivian sunk her teeth into her bottom lip. This moment could last forever and it wouldn’t be long enough.
“It’s…getting deeper~” Her body had found its rhythm for Wise and he took full advantage of it, twisting her stomach into butterfly knots from the way his tip rubbed up against an eager womb that brought her to tears. “I can’t believe it’s this good! I…I’m!!!”
She tried to warn him but couldn’t. Every knot snapped, frying her brain and blurring her vision as hips went numb. The way her body held onto him had Wise through his teeth. Despite all odds, the man found the will to drag himself out, spraying his load all over the sand; several ropes couldn’t help but aim higher and painted Vivian’s ankles and shoes. Their bodies buzzed from the pleasure and grew more sensitive to the breeze. Night had settled in but to them, they were still in dusks after glow.
The lavender girl slowly turned herself around. She had missed looking at her hero's face. His hat had fallen off beside them, revealing damp windswept hair; a fascinating look but Vivian was more focused on his yearnful gaze and tensing body. She just might have to thank his Shifu for working him so hard.
With a teasing smile and sultry tone, Vivian finally spoke. “You could’ve left it inside.”
“I…was not taking that risk on short notice.” He panted, amazed at his restraint in the moment.
“As cautious as ever. One of your best qualities, but don’t worry. I would never burden your life or drastically change mine on a whim. Even if you came inside, nothing would’ve come of it in the future. It’s safe.”
“Doesn’t having sex with me on the beach suddenly count as a drastic change in life?” Wise was beginning to believe Vivian logic is beyond his complete understanding.
Before he could ponder anymore than necessary, Vivian’s hands came up again to hold his face. He watched the way her gaze softened and captured the stars. It’s funny how such a contrast from earlier drew him in just as strongly. Just as they were about to cross another line, the sound of distant footsteps and stray lights swaying brought them back to reality. Vivian hastily tried covering her body while Wise stepped in front of her and fixed his trunks.
Vivian made herself as small as possible behind him. “Is someone coming?”
“I don’t know.” Wise leaned and pulled his head over the batch of rocks hiding them with Vivian following suit.
The lights were indeed coming from two employees walking the property. One of them is clearly looking for the owners of the stuff they left. It wasn’t closing time yet, but it was getting really close.
“How attached are you to the things we left?” Wise asked.
“My phone, ID, and wallet are there.”
“So very. Got it.” This was about to be a bit awkward. “You stay here and get yourself sorted out. I’ll grab the things and head to the car. If they only see me then they won’t think you’re here. More importantly, they won’t assume anything.”
“It’s not really an assumption at this point.” She laughed softly, a little embarrassed to admit that fact. “While I appreciate you considering my image, that bag is rather feminine and multiple items were left. I propose a different plan.”
“I’m all ears.”
“Instead of coming out this way, walk around the other way to avoid the beach and cut through to the parking lot. I’ll get our belongings.”
“All on your own? That’s a lot of stuff.” He looked back at her. To his surprise, Vivian was already dressed appropriately again.
“With all due respect Lord Phaethon, I am a part of Mocking Bird. Even with my legs in this state, I fear you’re still far clumsier than me when it comes to stealth.”
“That is…fair.”
Vivian washed off her shoes and feet then handed the former to Wise. Her odds were better without them right now. “Take these please.”
“Sure thing. I’ll give you a single when the car is ready.” Wise took off stealthily.
“Wait! I don’t have my phone!”
“You’ll know the signal. Trust me.”
Considering his line of work, there was nothing to argue about. Vivian kept her eyes on their belongings and employees. Suddenly Hugo’s first rule took on what was probably his original intent. A single opportunity was all she needed. A couple minutes passed by before suddenly, all the aquarium lights began strobing wildly.
“He wasn’t joking about knowing it.” She watched both employees go over to check out the situation. “Perfect!” Vivian darted over as fast as she could.
Thank goodness she took off her shoes! Full stride really wasn’t possible at the moment, but that didn’t stop her from being light on her feet and swift. The art of swiping items was also a well practiced skill thanks to Hugo. In no time at all, all things made it into the bag, cooler, and the umbrella was taken. In her haste, Vivian remembered what Wise had said earlier. The girl couldn’t help but turn around to catch the moon peering over the water as if it came from the depths.
“Truly an eye for scenery.” Vivian put the bag on her shoulder and grabbed the cooler. A faint gust began to stir something much larger. Hugo’s final lesson: improvise! Vivian kept the umbrella open and caught the wind, leaping as the gust struck. It carried her all the way back to the rocks and more, erasing the presence of any footsteps.
As she went by their hiding spot, she swung her right foot out and flicked up Wise’s forgotten bucket hat onto her head. Maybe it came with her job or was strictly Hugo’s influence, but pulling off this flawless getaway under the moonlight gave her a really strong urge to laugh as if she pulled off the heist of the century. She resisted of course, but the grin remained plastered on her face.
“To think not so long ago I spent the nights longing to be normal. It almost seems silly now. Oh how I love this life of mine~”
xxxxxx
Car was revved up, the heat was on, and the trunk was open. Wise patiently awaited the most important part.
“Maybe I should’ve taken more?”
“Heads up, Lord Phaethon!” The little thief announced, tossing the boy’s hat onto his head as she landed. All items were tossed into the trunk and closed immediately. They hopped right into the car and sat completely still like they didn’t do anything crazy.
The radio played upbeat pop and the motor hummed. Neither sound could break through the silence between them as reality came crashing in harder than the waves. They really had sex on the beach today. They had sex in general! Not only that, but if they were being honest, the sensation hadn’t left. They simply knew how to prioritize.
“Today was…” Wise started.
“…Fun?” Vivian finished, hoping the word fit. The smile he gave her dispelled any fear. “Good. I’m glad we both think so. I guess…it’s time to go home though.” Vivian did her best to smile, but it was obvious to anyone she wasn’t ready to call the day finished.
Wise checked his phone. No important message, and not terribly late. Autumn just made nighttime come a little quicker. “Y’know…it doesn’t have to be over. I actually have been meaning to go personally check on Random Play. If you want to-”
“Yes!” Vivian didn’t hesitate or care to hide her joy. “I’d love to, if you’ll have me.” She really couldn’t stop smiling.
“Alright then. Random play it is. It’ll take a little bit, but the roads are pretty open this time of night.” He pulled out of the parking lot and hit the road.
Just as he thought, open and free. And with good music and company, time would fly by. As he focused on driving however, Wise didn’t pay attention to Vivian until his peripheral caught lavender near his lap and felt his swimming trunks loosen again.
The blush was back. “Vivian!?”
“Eyes on the road, my dear Phaethon~” she cooed.
Wise didn’t dare look down, but that didn’t stop the return of a familiar, alluring warmth. He took a deep breath and eased up on the gas for both their sakes. This ride was gonna feel longer than expected.