Memories of Bali

The days that followed were filled with sweet moments. Alexei never failed to make Hana feel special, whether through simple morning texts or spontaneous lunch dates. His charm was undeniable, and despite her lingering doubts, Hana found herself slowly falling deeper for him.

"Have you heard back from any of the places you applied to?" Dewi asked one morning as they enjoyed breakfast on the terrace.

"Not yet," Hana said, stirring her coffee absentmindedly. "It's been quiet. I'm trying not to worry, but I really need to find something soon."

"You know," Dewi began, a teasing smile playing on her lips, "Alexei would probably love it if you just stopped looking and let him take care of you."

Hana gave her a playful glare. "We've had that conversation. I told him I need to work, and he respects that."

"But do you?" Dewi pressed. "You like him, Hana. And honestly, who wouldn't want to be spoiled by a guy like him?"

"It's not about that, Dewi," Hana sighed. "I appreciate everything he does, but I can't just rely on someone else. I've always been independent, and I don't want to lose that."

"Fair enough," Dewi said with a shrug. "Just don't push him away too much, okay? He seems like a good guy, even if he's a bit mysterious."

Later that afternoon, Hana received a call from one of the cafes she had applied to. They wanted her to come in for an interview the next day. Feeling a mix of excitement and relief, she immediately texted Alexei to share the news.

Hana: Hey, I got an interview tomorrow at that beachside cafe I told you about! Wish me luck.

Alexei: That's great, love. I'm proud of you. Let me take you out for dinner tonight to celebrate.

Smiling at his supportive response, Hana agreed. By evening, Alexei arrived to pick her up, as punctual as always. This time, he took her to a cozy rooftop restaurant overlooking the city lights.

"You didn't have to go all out just for this," Hana said, looking around in awe.

"I wanted to," Alexei said with a smile. "Every small win deserves to be celebrated."

They clinked glasses and enjoyed a quiet meal, their conversation flowing easily as always. Hana couldn't help but feel grateful for his presence. He made everything seem lighter, easier.

As they left the restaurant, Alexei reached for Hana's hand, pulling her gently towards a quieter corner of the rooftop. The view of the ocean stretched before them, glittering under the moonlight.

"You know," Alexei began, his voice low and thoughtful, "every time I'm with you, it feels like the world fades away."

Hana smiled, her heart skipping a beat. "I feel the same way. You make me forget about everything else."

They stood in silence for a moment, simply enjoying each other's company. But as perfect as the moment seemed, a question lingered in Hana's mind. Should she ask him about his past? Or would that ruin the magic they had built so far?

Finally, she spoke, her voice hesitant. "Alexei… can I ask you something?"

"Of course," he replied, turning to face her.

"Why Bali?" she asked carefully. "Why did you choose to stay here?"

For a moment, Alexei didn't respond. His expression remained calm, but there was a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes. "Bali felt like the right place for a fresh start," he said simply. "A place where I could leave the past behind."

Hana nodded slowly, sensing that he wasn't ready to share more. She didn't want to push him, not when things were going so well.

"I understand," she said softly. "I came here for the same reason."

Their eyes met, and for a brief moment, it felt as if they shared an unspoken understanding two souls seeking refuge from their pasts.

The night ended with another sweet goodbye at Dewi's apartment. As Hana lay in bed, she couldn't stop thinking about Alexei's answer. He had told her enough to satisfy her curiosity for now, but the mystery surrounding him only deepened.