Regardless of how warm the air was, the ocean never got warmer than cold. As this was better than frigid, it was the opportune time for a nighttime swim. Regal crept through the deserted hallways to Alicia's room. He knocked lightly, and was only kept waiting for a few seconds. She was back-lit from the large window on the other side of her room, but he could tell she was smiling. As quietly as possible, she closed the door and the two of them scurried towards the exit.
They broke into a run once they got outside, hands clasped together tightly, and both smiling from ear to ear. Alicia stumbled, but Regal caught her before she could fall. The pair looked at each other for a moment, eyes reflecting the pearly light from the full moon. He scooped her up, carrying her bridal style until they reached the sandy beach.
Neither of them had brought swimming suits, but they were quite alone and neither one cared. He went in first, trying to get accustomed to the cold water in a slow, steady pace. Suddenly, freezing spray hit him in the back, making him cry out and jump. He spun around to see Alicia doubled over with laughter. He laughed with her, but was quick in delivering his revenge. Hoisting her into the air by her waist, he tossed her into the air so she landed with a splash, totally submerged by the water. Alicia resurfaced with a gasp, which gave way to more laughing as she flung more water in Regal's direction.
They played for hours, until they were both shivering too much to continue. Leaving the water, they dried off, adorned enough clothing to be decent again, and lay on the sand, staring up at the night sky.
"Tomorrow," he said quietly, wrapping his arm around her body and hugging her to his side, "we can go to Ozette together."
She beamed, snuggling into his chest, "okay!"
Only when she had starting dozing off did they decide they should go back inside. They needed to be rested enough to make their journey after all. He held her hand until they reached her bedroom door. Leaning down, he kissed her gently and whispered "good night".