He reached out to take her hand.
Xander: "I promise, from this moment forward, no more secrets."
She considered his words.
Amelia: "We need to work together, as equals. Agreed?"
Xander: "Agreed."
Just then, Liam bounded out onto the balcony, his face alight with excitement.
Liam: "Mommy! Daddy! Come see what I found!"
Amelia smiled down at him.
Amelia: "What is it, sweetheart?"
Liam: "A cave on the beach! It's got shiny rocks inside!"
Xander exchanged a glance with Amelia.
Xander: "That sounds interesting. Should we go check it out?"
Liam nodded eagerly.
Liam: "Yes! Come on!"
They followed Liam down to the shore, the tension between them easing slightly in the face of his enthusiasm.
---
The cave was tucked away behind a cluster of rocks, partially hidden by the tide. Inside, the walls glistened with mineral deposits, casting iridescent reflections.
Liam: "See? Isn't it amazing?"
Amelia gazed around, her awe genuine.
Amelia: "It's beautiful."
Xander examined the walls, his expression turning thoughtful.
Xander: "These markings... they're not natural."
Amelia moved closer to where he was standing.
Amelia: "What do you mean?"
He traced his fingers over a series of symbols etched into the stone.
Xander: "These are ancient runes. Protective spells."
Liam tilted his head.
Liam: "What do they say?"
Xander smiled softly at him.
Xander: "They're meant to keep this place hidden from those who might misuse its power."