They began to talk.
About everything and nothing.
Mia shared a few memories from her childhood at the orphanage, some painful, others more amusing.
Fran told her about his interests, the places he liked, and the things he had discovered over the years.
Mia laughed when he admitted that he genuinely disliked romantic movies.
"Impossible!"
"I swear."
"Then why are you taking me out to dinner under the moonlight?"
Fran raised his glass.
"Because I have nothing against a beautiful evening."
"Just the movies?"
"Exactly."
"You're weird."
"I'll take that as a compliment."
Time passed without either of them realizing it.
After the meal, Mia leaned back slightly and gazed at the sky.
"I can't even remember the last time I had such a peaceful evening."
Fran put a few things away.
"You should have more evenings like this."
Mia looked at him.
"Thank you."
Fran smiled.
"You're welcome."
Then he stood up and held out his hand to her.
"Come."
"Where?"
"To dip our feet in the water."
Mia looked at the lake.
Then at his hand.
She smiled.
"Okay."
She took his hand.
They walked to the edge of the lake and took off their shoes.
The cool water touched their feet.
Mia shivered.
"It's cold!"
Fran laughed.
"You'll get used to it."