“I planned to buy some… but there’s nothing for sale here.”

“Of course not.” Hadley gave a small laugh.

“This is the Scott family’s private island.”

It wasn’t open to the public—and clearly not set up for visitors.

“That makes sense,” Ellis said, nodding.

“I’m not from Srixby, so I didn’t know. But now I do. This island really is untouched.”

He sat down beside her, his gaze drifting toward her profile. A faint smile touched his lips.

Hadley looked down at her thermos bottle. She unscrewed the lid, which doubled as a small cup, and asked, “If you don’t mind, would you like some of mine? I usually drink warm water, though.”

Ellis nodded slightly and reached for it.

“I don’t mind.”

“Here you go.” Hadley poured the water into the makeshift cup and handed it to him with a smile.

“It’s a bit hot, so take it slow.”

“Thanks.” Ellis brought it to his lips and took a cautious sip.

“Is the temperature all right?”

“Yes. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

A few minutes later, Hadley rose to her feet and brushed her palms off.

“I need to start running back. Mr. Gomez, are you—”

“I’m about to head back too.” Ellis stood up as well.

“If you don’t mind, shall we run together?”

Hadley chuckled.

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“I don’t mind.”

There was only one way back anyway. And besides, she was the host; he was the guest.

“Let’s go then.”

They jogged side by side, following the same path they had taken earlier. Summer days were long. It wasn’t even seven yet, but the sun had already climbed the sky, casting a warm glow over the fields.

When they reached a certain house, Hadley came to a stop and pointed inside.

“This is me. Well—”

“Hadley,” Ellis cut in before she could finish. He dipped his head slightly so he could look her straight in the eye as he continued, “I’m thirty years old. I’m from Lunville. I’m working in Srixby right now, but I probably won’t be staying there for long. My parents are both alive and healthy. I have three older brothers. My family runs a business back in Lunville…”

Hadley blinked, stunned. Her lips parted as if to speak, but nothing came out.

Ellis didn’t give her the chance to respond. He was clearly ready for this.

“And about my personal life—I’ve never been married. I’m single. I currently don’t have a girlfriend—”

“Hold on!” Hadley finally found her opening. She raised a hand, waving it at him as if to stop the rush of words. Her heart pounded with panic.

She wasn’t some naive girl who couldn’t read between the lines. She knew exactly where this was going.

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