“Are you cold?”

“No, I’m fine.”

They held each other close, their body heat mingling. Alicia felt a thrill of excitement, certain Caden’s surprise would be wonderful. They walked for some time. The sound of a heavy door swinging open echoed.

Alicia tilted her head. “Could it be an amusement park?” she wondered aloud. Who would keep an amusement park open this late? Yet, considering Caden’s wealth, it seemed entirely possible he’d booked the entire place.

She chuckled. “Are you taking me to ride the Ferris wheel? They say making a wish at the top ensures a lasting relationship.”

A hint of a smile played on Caden’s lips. “That’s quite a cliché.”

Alicia laughed heartily. “Even if it is, if it’s something you choose, I’ll cherish it.”

Caden paused. Her words, though perhaps overly sweet, were endearing. Alicia had lost track of how far they’d walked. Then, she sensed they’d entered an elevator; it ascended for nearly a minute before stopping. As the doors slid open, a strong gust of wind hit them.

“The wind is so strong,” she said. “Are we on a rooftop?” Deprived of her sight, her other senses sharpened.

Caden grunted. “Just a few more steps, then I’ll remove the blindfold.”

Alicia hesitated. “What kind of surprise is this?”

“Be patient. You’ll see very soon.”

“You’re not planning something bad, are you?” she asked, noting, “It’s the middle of the night, on a rooftop.”

Caden was momentarily speechless. She was delightful, yet she had a knack for deflating the moment. He gently released her hands. Feeling vulnerable, Alicia clutched her clothing.

“Caden, where are you going?”