Chapter 93

“What do you think? Liam asked the moment they got out of the car.

Izzy said nothing in response as she stared at the structure before her. The bright, colorful arches of the theme park’s entrance loomed ahead. The massive gates, adorned with vibrat marine motifs and cheerful characters, framed the bustling crowds flowing in and out. The salty breeze from the nearby harbor carried the faint sounds of children laughing and distant music. The park’s name wasn’t necessary to identify its reputation for world–class aquariums and thrilling attractions preceded it.

She turned to Liam, frowning. “I thought you said we were going to breakfast, Why are we here?” He had actually convinced her to wake up early on a Saturday morning so they could get some Cheung Fun or rice noodle rolls in Hong Kong.

Since Hong Kong was just an hour away from where they were staying, Izzy had agreed. Besides, she’d only visited Hong Kong once, and that was for another project. This time, she thought they would be walking around Mong Kok, shopping, and doing many other things. In fact, he even convinced her to wear some comfortable sneakers.

Who would have thought he was going to bring her to an amusement park with… aquariums?

Liam’s face lit up with an impish grin as he extended a hand toward her. “Surprise?”

Izzy folded her arms. “The last time you took me to a theme park wasn’t exactly… pleasant.”

At this, Liam’s grin softened. A flicker of guilt crossed his features. “I know. But that’s exactly why we’re here now.” He gestured toward the park gates. “I thought it was time we rewrote that memory.”

Izzy hesitated, his words tugging at a bittersweet memory she hadn’t revisited in years. Their last theme park visit had been to Florida, shortly after her parents‘ tragic deaths. Her grandfather had hoped a cheerful outing would lift her spirits, and he had insisted on bringing Liam along for support.

But she’d made the mistake of inviting Monica too. In fact, she had insisted they bring Monica or she wouldn’t even take a step inside the park.

That day had been a disaster. Monica, terrified of thrill rides, had insisted they skip them entirely, whining anytime Izzy even suggested going on one. As a result, Izzy hadn’t enjoyed a single ride or exhibit. The memory still stung, laced with her grief and the resentment she hadn’t realized she’d harbored until today.

“I don’t know…” she started, glancing at Liam, whose expression was uncharacteristically earnest. Did this man eat something different today? Izzy thought inwardly. Since their dinner last night, Liam seemed to have been acting differently from his usual smug self. She didn’t like to think about it, but she found all this very strange.

was that really the case? Or was she merely

steady gaze. “That was a tough time–for you, for all of us. But this isn’t Florida, and Monica’s not here.”

defenses weakening. “That does

lowering his voice. “This time, no interruptions,

her lips. “Alright, fine. But

Fri, Jan 24

Chapter 93

C

grin returning in full force.

oversized stuffed animals, while couples posed for photos in front of the

corner.

lights. Schools of brightly colored fish darted between coral reefs, while larger creatures–stingrays, sharks, and even sea turtles–glided gracefully through the water. The sight was mesmerizing.

low. “What do you think?”

her eyes away from the underwater world before her.

he teased. “I told you this would

him, smirking. “Don’t get cocky. We’ve only

yellow fish with bold black stripes swimming near the coral. He leaned slightly toward her, his hand brushing hers. “Did you know

together?” Izzy cut him off, her lips curving into a small, triumphant smile as

clearly caught off guard. He raised a brow, his grin returning. “Impressive. Didn’t realize

Besides, it’s hot that hard to figure out. They’re always in pairs. Look

of coral. “That’s a pipefish,” she said. “They’re related to seahorses, and

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