The next morning greeted Taylor and Colby with bright sunshine and an endless blue sky. They had an exciting day ahead, starting with a boat tour along the beautiful coast of Oʻahu.

Taylor and Colby settled on the deck of the catamaran, enjoying the warm breeze and the gentle rocking of the boat. They watched as the shore slowly faded into the distance, leaving them in the midst of the vast ocean. The waves glittered in the sunlight, and dolphins playfully leaped out of the water.

"I can't believe those are real dolphins," Taylor said, her eyes wide with wonder.

Colby grinned and put his arm around her shoulders. "Hawaii really has something magical about it. And just wait until we go surfing. That's going to be even better."

"Better than cute dolphins?" she asked skeptically, but with a smile.

"Dolphins are assholes. They might look cute, but they are some of the wildest sex animals out there."

"Sounds familiar." She kissed him on the nose.

After a few hours of relaxing in the sun on the boat, snorkeling, and observing marine life, they returned to the harbor. Taylor felt refreshed and invigorated, ready for the next adventure.

"Okay, Surfer Boy," she said as they stood back on solid ground, pointing towards a surf rental shop. "Show me your skills."

Colby grinned widely. "You won't regret it. To the beach."

The man at the counter gave Taylor a strange look when she requested two surfboards, but he didn't ask any questions. While Ghost Boy expertly waxed his board with his own wax, Taylor couldn't hide her nerves. Her initial excitement had faded now that it was real, and she held her board in her hands.

"Alright, Taylor," Colby said with a confident smile. "I'm the best when it comes to surfing. Let me show you how it's done."

Taylor chuckled nervously. "Colby, you know I love you, but ... I think I need a real surf instructor."

Colby raised an eyebrow. "A real instructor? I thought I was your hero in all situations."

"You are my hero," she said softly, rising on her toes to kiss him on the forehead. "I believe you're a pro. But I'd rather have someone who lives and breathes teaching surfing."

"Okay," he grinned. "Honestly, it was surprising that you're ready to hit the water right away. I thought you might not be able to walk again yet." He winked and received a smack on the back of his head from Taylor. "You know," he continued nonetheless, "because my big friend is so big."

"Asshole. So you're not mad that I want a trainer?"

"Nah. As long as you feel safe and are safe. Just know, if he tries anything, I'll drown him until the lights go out."

"Understood."

"And if you need me, I'll find my way to you, alright? Worked last time."

"Deal." She slapped his shoulder. "And now go tame those waves. They need their king."

Finding a surf trainer wasn't that difficult. Just behind the rental shop, a man lay on a lounger sunning himself. Next to him was a sign that read:

SURF TRAINING - SAGE NOHEA

The young man was covered in scars, most of which were adorned with individual tattoos. Dolphins, fish, hieroglyphs, everything. Not just black, Taylor spotted a few red tattoos as well. He had a toned body, but unlike Colby, it seemed more natural, as if he had built his muscles through adventures and hard work, not the gym. Which didn't mean he wasn't muscular. On the contrary, he looked like he had achieved his strength through a combination of natural activities and an athletic lifestyle. And his dark, tousled hair somehow perfectly matched his relaxed, slightly rebellious demeanor. He wore sunglasses, and Taylor wasn't sure if he was asleep or not.

As Taylor approached, Sage slowly opened his eyes and looked at her through his sunglasses. His gaze was calm, and his smile slightly mocking. He smoothly rose from the lounger and brushed his hair back from his forehead.

"Hey," he greeted Taylor with a relaxed voice that hinted at a slight island vibe. "You want surf training, yeah?"

Taylor nodded uncertainly. She was impressed by Sage's appearance and cool demeanor, but also a bit unsure. He clearly wasn't the typical surf instructor she had expected. Somehow, she would have preferred a chubby old man, but terribly nice. Or a woman. Not a guy her age who looked like he brought a new woman home every night. But okay, she had been wrong about Colby too. Okay, no, he really used to bring a new woman home every night in his life. He loved to talk about that. But he wasn't an asshole. Maybe this one wasn't either?

"Yeah, um, I'd like to learn the basics," she finally replied.

Sage raised an eyebrow. "Basics." And then he was silent, just staring at Taylor. It got awkward after a while. But eventually he smiled broadly. "Then you're in the right place." He casually extended his hand. "I'm Sage."

Taylor nodded politely and shook his hand. "I'm Taylor."

"You're sweating. Nervous?"

She felt a little overwhelmed by his directness, but she also felt a certain fascination with his unconventional demeanor. "A bit, maybe," she admitted, smiling slightly embarrassed.

Sage studied her thoughtfully and then grinned again. "That's normal. Surfing can be intimidating, especially at first. But don't worry, I'll teach you everything you need to know. You know, basics."

He picked up a water bottle from the ground and took a sip before continuing. "So, Taylor, how much experience do you have with surfing?"

Taylor shook her head. "None at all. I've never tried it."

Sage nodded and grinned again. "Perfect. Beginners are my specialty."

He reached for the surfboard under his lounger, pushed it forward, and tossed it at her feet.

Taylor wasn't sure what to say now. "A-are we going straight into the water?" she asked anxiously.

"No, you maniac." He nodded towards the board with a head gesture and lay back on his lounger. "You practice here on land first." His gaze rested calmly on Taylor as he relaxed back and the sun gleamed on his tanned face.

Taylor wasn't sure how to react. She stood beside the surfboard Sage had thrown to her feet, contemplating it uncertainly. "So ... practice here on land?" she repeated slowly, making sure she understood him correctly.

Sage chuckled softly and put his sunglasses back on his face. "Yeah, exactly. You need to get a feel for the board first before we go into the water. Practice standing up, finding balance, those are the basics." He made a inviting hand gesture and then crossed his muscular arms. "Come on. Show me how you lie on the board."

Taylor took a moment to gather herself before lying down on the surfboard. She felt the warmth of the sunlight on her skin and the gentle breeze coming from the sea as the training officially began.

She focused on following Sage's instructions, starting to mimic the paddling movements. The board wobbled beneath her and she struggled to maintain her balance and adjust to the unfamiliar situation.

Sage watched her attentively, his sunglasses hiding his eyes, but his smile was evident in his voice as he encouraged her to keep going. Taylor tried to stay calm and focus on the movements, slowly getting accustomed to the feeling of the surfboard beneath her.

After several attempts, she finally managed to rise from lying down to standing upright, albeit still uncertain and shaky. She felt her heart racing with excitement and pride at her small success. Sage quietly clapped and praised her for her progress.

"I think that's enough for today. Good job," he said, pulling the board back under his lounger with his foot, still not getting up.

"Thank you. What do I owe you?" Taylor asked.

"The first hour with me is always free. After that, it's 60 dollars."

"60 dollars?" Taylor hadn't expected that. Was that a normal amount?

"Yeah, I gotta make a living too. But I'm the best surfer on all of Oʻahu," he chuckled casually.

Taylor didn't know why she suddenly felt the need to counter him. But she just had to. "Well, my boyfriend is currently on Oʻahu too. He's pretty good too."

Sage grinned. "And yet, you're here with me." Damn, he was good. "So, I'll see you tomorrow for the next session?"

"Okay, damn, yeah. I really want to learn this. I want to be able to surf with my boyfriend."

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"Good girl." Oh hell no, did he just say that? "See you tomorrow. And don't forget the 60 bucks. Unfortunately, I can't even make exceptions for pretty beginners; my sister would kill me. Seriously. She would. Without blinking an eye."

He was not that different from Colby, confident and laid-back, but somehow not in such a childish way as Colby would be.

"Okay. See you tomorrow," she waved, but Sage just nodded and stared back into the sun. Taylor had already turned to leave, but something pulled her back. She turned back to Sage. "Sorry if this question is too personal, but do you lie in the sun all day?" Valid question. She hadn't seen him do much else so far. Okay, he obviously had to be a good surfer, but still?

Sage tilted his head slightly and smiled mischievously when he heard Taylor's question. He relaxed on his lounger, folding his hands behind his head. "Not just," he answered with a hint of mystery in his voice. "I have other passions besides surfing."

Taylor raised an eyebrow, curious about his answer. She couldn't imagine what someone like Sage could do besides surfing. Her guesses ranged from yoga to painting or even music, but she wanted to hear it straight from him. But then there was nothing more.

"What would those be?" she asked herself if he didn't want to talk about it.

Sage smiled and took off his sunglasses to look directly at Taylor. "I also practice martial arts," he explained calmly.

Taylor's eyes widened in surprise. "Martial arts? Which ones?" she asked, fascinated by the sudden turn in the conversation.

"Taekwondo," Sage replied calmly. "Black belt."

Taylor was impressed. She had never expected Sage to have a hobby like Taekwondo. It didn't fit at all with the image she had of him.

"That's cool," she said appreciatively. "How did you get into it?"

Sage shrugged. "Just did. Started as a kid and then it just stuck with me. It helps me stay fit and keep my mind focused. Plus, it ensures I can defend myself when needed."

Taylor nodded thoughtfully. That explained his muscular and agile appearance.

"That's really impressive," she said sincerely. "You're really versatile."

Sage smiled modestly and put his sunglasses back on. "Thanks. Surfing and Taekwondo complement each other in a way. Both require balance, body control, and concentration. Maybe you could try it sometime."

Taylor smiled back, although she wasn't sure if martial arts were really her thing. But she was fascinated by Sage's lifestyle and his passion for what he did.

"Maybe," she replied cautiously. "But for today, I'm happy with surfing. Looking forward to tomorrow."

"Me too."

She couldn't resist. "Okay, sorry. Again." She turned to him again. "What do you mean by being able to defend yourself when needed?"

Sage raised an eyebrow again when Taylor asked the question. For a moment, he seemed to consider how much he could reveal. His gaze became more serious as he answered slowly.

"Let's just say, I'm a man of action."

Okay, that didn't say much at all. "Is it too private now if I ask what you mean by that?"

"Curious, huh?" He grinned. "There's more here than just waves and sunshine, you know?"

Taylor felt there was more to it, but she didn't want to dig any further. She nodded slowly and returned his smile. "I understand. Thanks for being so open."

"No problem. But now go and enjoy the rest of your day. See you tomorrow and let's continue. Don't forget the 60 bucks."

Taylor nodded again and slowly walked along the beach until she spotted Colby in the distance. He stood on his surfboard, slicing through the waves like a pro. She watched him for a while, fascinated by his grace and control. What did others see? Just a board? Or nothing at all because the surfboard acted like clothing and became invisible as soon as Colby used it?

Eventually, he paddled back to the beach and walked towards her with the board under his arm.

"Hey, how was it?" he called out as he approached.

Taylor smiled broadly. "It was great! I can now do the basics of the basics. How about you?"

Colby grinned and shook his wet hair, deliberately splashing water on Taylor. She squealed and stepped back to avoid the drops.

"Hey!" she exclaimed, laughing and wiping her face. "That was on purpose."

"Maybe," said Colby with an innocent smile, shrugging. "The waves are freaking awesome." He put his hands on his hips. "And? What else do you want to do today, Living Girl?"

Taylor looked at Colby for a moment and then smiled again. "Let's just walk along the beach a bit more. I want to enjoy the sun and the sea."

Colby nodded in agreement. "Sounds good. Let's go."

"Are you always this easy to convince?"

"Nope." Poppin sound. "I just say yes to everything you want to do," he grinned.

They started their walk, their feet sinking into the warm sand, and the sound of the waves accompanying them. Taylor took a deep breath and enjoyed the salty sea air. She felt relaxed and happy, just being in this moment.

"So, tell me more about this trainer guy," Colby said after a while. "He seems like an interesting guy."

Taylor told him about her first surfing lesson, Sage's direct manner, and his mysterious demeanor. Colby listened attentively, nodding occasionally and asking questions now and then.

"It sounds like you're in good hands," Colby finally said, albeit with a hint of jealousy. "But still, if he seems weird in any way, let me know, okay?"

"Don't worry, I'll be careful. But I feel like he's just a bit different."

They continued walking, enjoying the peace and beauty of the beach. Colby told Taylor about his past surfing adventures and some funny stories he had experienced, mostly involving Brad, and then he always realized that Charlie must have been there too. Taylor laughed a lot and felt as comfortable as ever in Colby's presence.

After a while, they came across a small rock pool filled by the tide. The water was clear and calm, with small fish swimming in it. Taylor knelt down and dipped her hands into the water, feeling the cool freshness on her skin.

"This place is so beautiful," she said softly. "I could stay here forever."

Colby sat down next to her and put an arm around her shoulders. "That's Hawaii for you. And it's even more beautiful experiencing it with you."

Taylor leaned against him and savored the moment. "I'm so glad we're here," she said. "It's like a dream."

Colby hugged her gently. "Everything with you feels like a dream."

They stayed by the rock pool for a while longer, watching the fish and cuddling. Eventually, they decided to move on and explore more of the beach. The afternoon passed by quickly, and they enjoyed every minute of it.

As the sun slowly set, painting the sky in warm orange tones, they paused to admire the breathtaking spectacle. They stood arm in arm, watching as the day's last rays kissed the horizon.

"You wanted to know about my job. Well, I mean, what it was," Taylor suddenly said, gazing into the sunset. "I want to tell you."

Colby looked at her, surprised. "That came out of nowhere," he grinned.

"I know, it... it just feels like the right time."

"I'll always listen to you, so go ahead."

"First, I should say that it was just quick money, something I can do anywhere without having much interaction with people and-"

Colby hugged her tighter. "It's okay. You don't have to justify yourself. What is it?"

"Colby... I was an online dominatrix."

The Ghost Boy looked at her incredulously. "The fuck is an online dominatrix?"

"I... got paid to pretend to be a dominatrix online. Stella Stiff. Mostly I just forwarded pre-generated responses, but sometimes I had to come up with my own things too."

Colby grinned proudly. "Tay-Tay, you dirty-"

"Colby. It was really shitty."

He immediately regretted his reaction. "Sorry."

"I mean, what was I supposed to work. With my fears."

"I'm not blaming you. It's just a job."

"And the day I met you, there was an old man. He wanted a video call so he could show me how he is degrading himself for me. Of course, I had my camera off and didn't talk to him, just through text. But ugh, that was really disgusting. That was the first time with video. Otherwise, I've only had to respond to their text messages."

"Okay, yes. I'm also imagining better jobs than watching old sacks wank off."

"At least that's my past now."

"Exactly. And I'll help you find the best job ever. I promised you and I'm sticking to it."

She kissed his cheek lightly. "Thank you."

"But why did you think Harper would appear at your work?"

"The company... also offers a brothel. Did not work there, never would I do that, but if you ask there, you would get my name."

"I thought the world is more about data protection by now? And then you can just ask about the real names of the staff?"

"Colby. That's a brothel. What do you expect?"

"Point taken. And while we're at honest conversations, may I ask you something too?" Colby said calmly but insistently.

"Sure."

"It still bothers me to this day what Charlie meant back then. I mean, he's right. Your apartment is the most famous crime scene ever. How is it possible that you didn't know about me? Be honest."

"Colby, I haven't lied, if that's what you're thinking. I swear. I absolutely knew nothing about you. And I also don't understand why fans like Harper, why aren't they standing at the door daily? Aaand I swear it's not some witchcraft of mine or something, like Charlie suspected. Maybe the police just never publicly named the crime scene. Have we ever asked Harper if she knew where your crime scene was? Or that my apartment was the crime scene?"

"No, I don't think so?"

Taylor smiled. "Well, after our vacation, we've got the next lead to solve your case."

"I thought it was already solved." He shrugged. "I've been snoozing for ages."

"Are you kidding? We don't know why your bags were empty, what exactly happened to you or your body, or how Charlie saw me in the past. Or who has access to your MySpace account."

"You're right," Colby said thoughtfully. "I've somehow pushed all that aside."

"I often think about it, you know," Taylor began as they continued walking. "What really happened that night and why you have no memories of it. It's just so strange. But I believe every word Charlie said. I mean, I saw it myself in his mind."

Colby sighed and pulled her closer. "Sometimes it feels like a part of my life was just erased. Like a puzzle missing a piece that I'll never find."

"But we'll find it," Taylor said determinedly. "We'll figure out what happened to you and why there are so many gaps."

Colby smiled weakly. "Thank you for being by my side, Taylor."

"Always," she replied, squeezing his hand.

They continued toward the lighthouse, which sent its signals into the evening sky in the distance. The mood between them was calm and thoughtful, yet full of confidence that together they could face any challenge.

"I also don't quite understand why I have such crazy powers," Colby began finally, breaking the silence. "I mean, sure, I love them." He gestured and the sand in front of them briefly swirled before settling again. "But I don't understand it. Charlie can't do as much. And others definitely can't, from what it sounds like."

Taylor nodded thoughtfully. "That medium said back then that you're not a normal ghost. And that the universe has big plans for you. Whatever that means."

"Maybe I'm a god after all," he smirked confidently.

"Dream on."

They reached the lighthouse and stopped to enjoy the majestic view over the sea.

"But who knows. Maybe you really are a god," Taylor added with a playful undertone. They silently enjoyed the peaceful scenery for a moment as the evening light slowly spread over the sea.

Colby leaned against the lighthouse and contemplatively watched the waves gently rolling onto the beach. "But seriously, Tay. What do you really think about my powers?"

Taylor stepped beside him and followed his gaze out to the sea. "I think your powers are a part of who you are. Maybe there's no specific reason why you have them. Maybe that's just you."

"Sometimes it feels like I have a responsibility to use these powers right. Like they were given to me to make an impact, but I don't know exactly what."

"But maybe you don't have to. Maybe you just have to be and make the best of it. Maybe you don't have to understand why you have these powers, just accept that they belong to you. Who knows, maybe in your life you were a saint with a never ending list of things you did right. And now the powers are your reward."

"Me? A saint? Tay, I'm a good guy, but Mother Mary would have a heart attack if I told her what I've been up to," he laughed. "I'm the kind of guy who would make Jesus gay as fuck if he saw me. No way I'm a saint."

"Maybe God's just into you. Who knows, maybe he's just horny for you and that's why you have a few extras."

"That must be it." Then Colby's expression turned more serious. "But do you understand what I mean? It feels like I'm stuck in a big riddle I don't even know the question to."

"But you'll figure it out, Colby. Maybe not right away, maybe not in the near future, but one day you'll find answers. And until then, I'll be by your side."

The fratboy raised an amused eyebrow. "Even after that?"

Taylor laughed. "Of course."

They lingered at the lighthouse for a moment longer before deciding to head back. The sky above them gradually darkened as the stars began to appear in the firmament.

"It's getting late," Colby remarked finally, looking at Taylor. "Maybe we should start heading back to the resort."

Taylor agreed, and they set off along the beach, now bathed in the silvery light of the moon. The sounds of the night accompanied them as they walked side by side, determined to follow every small clue that could uncover even a fragment of Colby's past.