The restaurant was bathed in a gentle, golden glow. The lights dimmed as the evening deepened, and the flickering candlelight on the table cast soft shadows across Skye's face, making her look even more enchanting. Her smile was radiant, and the happiness in her eyes was impossible to hide. Every now and then, their gazes met, and a silent understanding passed between them—warmth, affection, and a sense of belonging that needed no words.
A violinist played in the corner, the melody weaving through the air with the cheerful notes of a piano. The elegant atmosphere, the romantic music, and the subtle fragrance of fresh flowers made the night feel almost dreamlike.
For Su Zhan and Skye, this dinner was perfect. They laughed, shared stories, and lost track of time. Occasionally, their hands brushed, and every touch sent a thrill through Skye's heart. She felt as if she were glowing from within, her joy impossible to contain.
After more than an hour, Su Zhan leaned closer, his voice low and intimate. "Are you satisfied, my dear?"
Skye nodded, her eyes shining. "I can't imagine anything more perfect than this. Tonight is a memory I'll never forget."
He gently wrapped his arm around her waist as they left the restaurant, Skye clinging to him like a koala, her head resting on his shoulder. Outside, the night air was cool and refreshing. "Shall we go somewhere else?" Su Zhan asked, his smile playful as he held her a little tighter.
Skye's cheeks flushed, but she nodded, her voice soft. "Wherever you want to go, I'll follow."
They walked together to a nearby hotel, the anticipation between them growing with every step. In the elevator, the doors had barely closed before they were in each other's arms, their lips meeting in a passionate kiss. By the time they reached their room, the world outside had faded away. Su Zhan gently kicked the door closed behind them, and the shawl Skye wore slipped from her shoulders, forgotten.
They clung to each other, as if afraid even a moment's separation would break the spell. Their hands moved with tender urgency, undressing each other as they tumbled onto the bed. Su Zhan's gaze lingered on Skye, drinking in every detail, his eyes filled with both desire and reverence. Skye blushed under his intense attention, closing her eyes as she surrendered to the moment.
His hands were warm and gentle as he cupped her face, whispering her name. Skye opened her eyes, meeting his gaze, and in that instant, she felt truly seen—cherished, safe, and loved.
For Skye, happiness was simple: being with the man she loved, knowing she was loved in return. Her life had been marked by uncertainty and loneliness, by a longing for family and security. But now, in Su Zhan's arms, she felt complete. Even if she never found her birth parents, even if her past remained a mystery, she had found her home.
That night, Skye slept deeply, her dreams peaceful. Even in sleep, her hand found its way to Su Zhan's neck, as if afraid he might vanish if she let go. In the dim light, Su Zhan watched her, marveling at the gentle smile that lingered on her lips.
Morning came softly. Skye reached out in her sleep, searching for the warmth beside her. When she found only empty sheets, she woke with a start, her heart pounding. "Su Zhan?" she called, her voice trembling.
A moment later, the door opened, and Su Zhan stepped in, carrying a tray of breakfast. Skye leapt into his arms, relief flooding her. "Where did you go?"
He smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Just to buy breakfast. I wasn't going anywhere without you."
Skye's eyes filled with emotion. "I thought… I thought you'd left."
He kissed her forehead. "I can't promise I'll be with you every single day, but this time, I'm not going anywhere. I'll always come back to you."
Skye nodded, holding him tightly. "Good. I don't want to let go."
He laughed softly. "Are you going to eat breakfast, or just cling to me like this?"
She giggled, finally letting go. Wrapped in a blanket, she joined him in the living room, and they shared a simple breakfast. For Skye, even an ordinary meal felt special when shared with Su Zhan.
After eating, Su Zhan asked, "What are your plans for today? Will you go back to S.H.I.E.L.D., or stay with me?"
Skye hesitated, her reluctance clear. "Of course I want to stay with you, but… I've found some clues I need to investigate. If I can finish quickly, maybe I can always be with you."
He nodded, understanding. "Alright. I'll take you back later."
They washed up, dressed, and left the hotel together. Back on the S.H.I.E.L.D. plane, it didn't take long for the others to notice something different about Skye. There was a new glow about her—a confidence, a quiet radiance that made her seem even more beautiful.
Coulson couldn't resist teasing Su Zhan. "I'm still injured, you know, and you're out there taking Skye on romantic getaways. Isn't that a little much?"
Su Zhan just grinned. "Jealous? Go find yourself a girlfriend, Coulson. Maybe it'll help heal your wounded heart."
"If there's nothing else today, I'll head back to the base. Call me if you miss me," Su Zhan said, kissing Skye's cheek before turning to leave.
As he passed Simmons, he noticed a strange look on her face—was it envy, or maybe even jealousy? He smiled at her, and Simmons quickly looked away, then managed a shy smile in return.
"You're looking beautiful today," he said softly.
After Su Zhan left, Simmons approached Skye, unable to hide her amazement. "Is it the dress?"
Skye shook her head, her smile sweet. "No, it's not the clothes. It's you—you're glowing, more feminine than ever," Simmons replied. "You're like a dazzling gem."
Skye's smile widened. She could feel the change in herself, the new confidence and maturity.
Simmons watched her, a thoughtful look in her eyes. "Is this the difference between a girl and a woman?" she wondered aloud, thinking back to her own moments with Su Zhan, the secret hopes she kept close to her heart.
Meanwhile, as Su Zhan flew away, he suddenly sneezed. "Strange… We just separated, and Skye's already thinking of me?"
He shook his head, preparing to accelerate, but a flash of light caught his eye below—a familiar glow, the unmistakable shimmer of a portal opening.
"How did she get here?" Su Zhan wondered, curiosity piqued, as he changed direction and flew down to investigate.