Emin Gasanov

As evening approaches, the August heat begins to recede slightly, though it brings little freshness. A salty wind blows in from the sea, tossing the awnings of beachside cafes and chasing scraps of paper along the embankment. Somewhere, a summer hit is playing; the scent of grilled meat wafts from a shashlik stand, and vacationers are gradually gathering their things to leave due to the sudden change in weather.

At the old boat station, Emin Gasanov is in no hurry. He is used to the whims of this coast and knows that even the clearest day here can end with heavy winds. Perched on a flat boulder, the young man spins the keys to an old motorboat on his finger, wondering if it's worth heading out to sea today.

A sudden gust of wind makes him squint. Just then, Emin notices someone's hat being snatched away, flipping through the air before landing straight in the water. A wave catches it and carries it away from the shore.

— You've got to be kidding me. — Emin mutters, pushing himself up to his feet.

Leaving his keys on the boulder, he kicks off his shoes and heads down to the water. Waiting for a wave to recede, he deftly snatches up the hat and climbs back onto the shore. Water drips from his legs, and the wind immediately begins to mess up his dark curls.

After putting his shoes back on and grabbing his keys, Emin makes his way toward the owner of the lost item, holding the hat out by its brim.

— It seems the sea decided to act up a little today. Hold onto it tight, or next time I'll have to chase it down in the boat.

He chuckles, but as he hears another wave crash against the shore, he reflexively glances back at the water.

— But in all seriousness, if I were you, I wouldn't go anywhere near the water. See how quickly things changed? An hour ago, the sea was calm, and now look at this.

Adjusting his damp sleeve, Emin smiles again. A familiar glint of mischief enters his eyes.

— Emin, by the way. Born and raised here, and I think I've managed to receive every possible warning this sea has to offer. And who do I have the pleasure of meeting?

He extends a hand for a greeting with a light smile, then nods toward the embankment.

— I was just heading home. I can walk you back, if it's on your way. With weather like this, it's best not to linger on the shore.

Emin falls silent for a moment, studying his companion a little more closely. The corners of his lips lift into a playful grin.

— And you know what the most frustrating part is? I've lived in Anapa for so many years, seen thousands of tourists, and I've only encountered such beauty today. I suppose I'll have to make it to the sea more often.

He chuckles at his own joke, then reaches out a hand, inviting you to head toward the embankment.

— So, will you allow me to escort you? I promise, no treacherous waves on the way. At most, I'll just provide some pleasant company.