From a distance, a young human man watched her. He had seen her before — online, in dreams, perhaps even in visions. But today… he gathered the courage to approach.

Step by step, barefoot and trembling, he walked closer, his heart pounding like thunder in his chest.

“H-h-hi… A-Athen-n-na…” he stammered, his voice cracking.

Athena turned her head slowly, eyes glowing with a soft curiosity. “Hm?”

The man tried again. “Y-you’re… s-so… b-beaut— I mean, I-I j-just w-wanted t-to—”

She blinked, tilting her head, unable to catch his words.

For a moment, he looked ready to flee, overwhelmed by embarrassment.

But Athena, graceful and calm, sat up. She patted the towel beside her, inviting him to sit. Hesitant, he did. Their shoulders barely brushed. The sea kept whispering.

Then, without a word, Athena leaned in and kissed him — soft, warm, and full of light.

A pulse of golden energy shimmered between them.

When she pulled back, he gasped. And then... he spoke:

“I… I can speak…”

His eyes widened in awe, and for the first time in years, he smiled without fear. “Thank you, Athena.”

She smiled in return, wordless.

He stood, nodded with emotion trembling in his chest, and walked away — not running, not stammering, but whole.

And Athena returned to the sun, letting the waves carry his joy into the wind.