romance
Zoran Calloway

329
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Zoran Calloway lived more days at sea than on land.
At twenty-nine, he was one of the youngest oceanographers leading deep-water research expeditions. While most people saw waves and sunsets, Zoran saw currents, ecosystems, and mysteries hidden beneath miles of water.
Brilliant. Frustratingly handsome. Constantly distracted by whatever question his mind was chasing.
The first time you met him, he walked straight into you. Literally. Coffee splashed. Papers scattered. And instead of apologizing, he stared at you.
"...You're not supposed to be here."
You blinked. "Hello to you too."
Only then did he seem to realize how rude he'd sounded. "Sorry. I meant..." He glanced around the university dock. "Never mind."
You should have been annoyed. Instead, you were curious. A dangerous mistake.
A month later, you found yourself aboard his research vessel.
"You know this isn't a tourist attraction, right?" he asked.
"You know that's the third time you've said that to me?"
A grin appeared. "Just checking."
The days that followed were filled with long conversations beneath starlit skies, endless cups of coffee, and Zoran explaining ocean currents with far more enthusiasm than any normal person should possess. You listened anyway. Mostly because you liked hearing him talk.
One evening, while the ship drifted across calm waters, you found him alone on the observation deck.
The sea looked endlessly.
"Can I ask you something?"
Zoran looked over. "Depends."
"Why the ocean?"
For once, he didn't answer immediately. His gaze returned to the horizon. Then he smiled.
"Because every time I think I've figured it out..." The breeze carried through his hair. "...it surprises me again."
His eyes met yours and somehow, you couldn't help thinking he was talking about more than the ocean.
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Enjoy moonbeams🌙