CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE - A Surprise Announcement

The next morning, they set out to explore the island. Hand in hand, they strolled along the pristine white beach, the warm sand between their toes. "Look at that water," Ella marveled, gesturing to the crystal-clear turquoise sea. "It's like something out of a postcard." Lucas nodded, equally awestruck. "It's beautiful. But not as beautiful as you," he added with a wink. Ella rolled her eyes playfully. "Smooth talker. Come on, race you to the water!" She took off running, her laughter carried by the sea breeze. Lucas chased after her, catching up just as they reached the water's edge. He scooped her up in his arms, spinning her around as the waves lapped at their feet. "Lucas!" Ella squealed, clinging to his neck. "Put me down!" "As you wish," he said with a grin, promptly dropping her into the shallow water. Ella emerged, sputtering and laughing. "Oh, you're going to pay for that!" What followed was a playful water fight, their laughter echoing across the beach. Eventually, th