Three days flew by and Lisa, brimming with excitement for their secret getaway, arrived early at the park. Luka, ever punctual, wasn't far behind.

"Hey Lisa, you're here early!" Luka greeted with a smile.

"Just a bit too eager," Lisa admitted, then noticed something. "Luka, where's your luggage?"

"A simple bag is all I need for this trip," Luka replied confidently.

"Alright then," Lisa said, shrugging playfully. "Your bag goes in the trunk, and let's hit the road!"

They settled into the car, conversation flowing easily as they shared secrets, deepening their connection with every word. The four-hour drive was a breeze filled with laughter and revelations.

Reaching their destination, Lisa gently nudged Luka awake. "This is it?" he asked, a touch of surprise in his voice. "I've actually been here before, years ago. Feels nostalgic, the fresh air, the scenery... it all comes flooding back."

A slight frown played on Lisa's face. "Oh, I thought I was taking you somewhere new. You seem to know everywhere."

"Don't worry about that, Lisa," Luka reassured her. "It was a long time ago. Let's just ditch this talk and head to the inn you booked."

Suddenly, Luka stopped Lisa. "Hold on a sec, Lisa. Why don't you head to the inn? I have a little surprise planned. I'll be there in a jiffy."

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

With a wink, Luka disappeared, leaving Lisa to check into the quaint inn. The manager, Kiera, greeted her warmly.

"Hello, Ms. Lisa," she said with a smile. "Ms. Selene informed me of your arrival and requested that we extend our utmost care. By the way, are you alone? Ms. Selene mentioned you'd be with your partner..."

"Oh, he's planning a surprise for me," Lisa explained, her voice laced with curiosity. "He just disappeared somewhere. Why don't you show me to my room? I could really use a freshener after the ride."

As if on cue, all of Lisa and Luka's belongings were transferred to their designated room. A refreshing bath later, Lisa emerged to find Luka standing in the doorway, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Hi Lisa!" he greeted, his voice barely a whisper.

Lisa shrieked, startled. "Oh, Luka! You scared the living daylights out of me!"

"Sorry, sorry!" Luka chuckled. "I just wanted to see your adorable frightened face. But seriously, I am sorry, Lisa."

Regaining her composure, Lisa pressed, "Alright, alright. Spill it, Luka. What's this surprise you have planned?"

"Just wait until the sun sets," Luka replied enigmatically. "Meet me at the temple entrance at 6 PM sharp. Oh, and wear something comfortable – we might be doing a bit of walking."

With another wink and a playful grin, Luka vanished once more. Lisa couldn't help but smile. His enigmatic ways were a bit strange, but her curiosity was definitely piqued.

Finding herself with some time on her hands, Lisa decided to explore the inn's hallways. Her gaze drifted towards a framed picture hanging on the wall. It depicted a seemingly happy family, the innkeeper likely in her younger years. Lost in thought, Lisa didn't notice Kiera approaching until she bumped into her.

"Ms. Lisa!" Kiera exclaimed, her voice filled with concern. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to startle you."

"Déjà vu, I guess," Lisa chuckled, brushing it off. "No worries, Kiera. By the way, is that your family in the picture?"

Kiera's smile faltered slightly. "Yes, Ms. Lisa. My husband used to take care of this inn, but sadly, he passed away a year ago." Her voice grew heavy with emotion. "My two sons are all I have left. The younger one works in the city, but he visits every month with his family to keep me company." She pointed to a picture of herself, her son and grandchild.

"What about your elder son?" Lisa inquired gently.

A wave of sadness washed over Kiera's face. "He left after a terrible argument with his father. My husband wanted him to take over the inn, but he yearned for a life of freedom, not one confined to these mountains. He writes occasionally, but he hasn't visited in years. My husband blamed himself for the rift, even in his final moments. He died with such regret..." Tears welled up in Kiera's eyes.

Without hesitation, Lisa pulled Kiera into a comforting hug. As Kiera sobbed softly, Lisa held her close, offering words of solace and a listening ear. After a while, Kiera seemed to regain her composure. Grateful for Lisa's kindness, Kiera insisted on dressing Lisa in a beautiful piece of local attire before sending her off to meet Luka at the appointed time.