The car soon arrived near the beach. This was the private beach of a well-known hotel, and Stark had already reserved spots. Those who wanted to swim, such as Stark, Peter, Steve, and Bobby, went to the changing rooms to put on swim trunks. Those uninterested in getting in the water, such as Strange and Schiller, ordered drinks at the bar and headed toward the lounge chairs.
"You have to promise me you won't tell anyone." Strange walked beside Schiller, sinking into the sand with every step, and lowered his voice. "This is a serious matter. You have to promise me."
"I can't give you any promises, because I won't be the one to break it in the end." Schiller tilted his head and glanced at him. "You're not the kind of person who can hide your feelings for long. You can't do it."
"Of course I can," Strange said. "Don't confuse me with those variants. My mind is perfectly clear. I know what matters most and what can wait..."
"Let's hope so." Schiller took a sip of cold juice, but his face said, I have absolutely no hope.
The sky by the sea was even bluer. It was nearing noon, and the sunlight had grown harsher. Curled up beneath the umbrella, Schiller watched the group on the beach shout and holler.
Steve seemed to have suggested a surfing competition. Stark had never been one to back down from a contest, and Peter was clearly worried about Stark, so he grabbed a surfboard and followed.
They were in a bay. Looking east, they could see the horizon where sea met sky. A little farther west lay another beach. It was not private and was much more crowded. Since it was nearby, quite a few people were watching this side as