Page 45 of The Fake Out Flex

"The captain has just turned on the fasten seat belt sign due to some expected turbulence," I reply, keeping a straight face. "But I'll return with everything you asked for as soon as it's safe to do so. And I can't wait to hear your thoughts about the in-flight entertainment. I trust you've been taking notes."

She throws her head back and lets out a laugh. The radius of the joyous sound stretches out around us. My heart blooms in my chest.

It's the first time she's laughed all day.

Forget hockey. I've got a new job now—making Evie laugh.

We reach the beachfront, but I imagine walking in heels on fine sand will be a challenge, so I keep her in my arms and head closer to the water.

"As we prepare for landing, please make sure your seat belt is fastened, your seat back and tray table are stowed, and your window shades are open."

She eyes me with an amused expression. "When are you planning to put me down?"

Never.

"Once the captain turns off the fasten seat belt sign and the aircraft has come to a complete stop at the gate," I reply, totally nailing my flight attendant voice. "Until then, please remain seated."

She laughs again. "I know I joked about your crazy big muscles before, but aren't you getting tired?"

"Nope. Not at all."

Okay, so I am getting slightly fatigued. But why ruin the moment?

We reach firmer sand.

"I'm all out of plane talk," I announce as I carefully ease her down.

"That's okay. I'll be sure to leave a positive review on the Rademacher Airlines website, despite the criminal lack of romcoms offered."

Ah, so she does like them. Good to know.

"Thank you, ma'am. Your feedback helps us continuously improve our service and better meet your needs."

Laugh number three. "You're a doofus."

"Guilty."

The gentle murmur of waves brushes against the shore as the sun dips toward the horizon line, casting a warm glow of tangerine and soft pinks over the tranquil beach.

At least I think it's a tranquil beach.

As far as I'm concerned, there's no one else here apart from Evie and me.

I unbutton my jacket and set it down as a makeshift blanket on the sand. "Are you okay sitting down in that dress, or do you need some help?"

"I should be fiiii?—"

She crashes straight into me.

"Were you about to say fine?" I tease, securing my arms around her back, holding her in place.

She tries to straighten, but it must be hard to rebalance in heels, so her body remains pressed against mine. And yeah, no complaints here.

She chuckles lightly. "I was."

I take hold of her arms and help her get steady on her feet. Once she is, her gaze meets mine. Wordlessly, I guide her down onto the sand, staring into her eyes the entire time.

With Evie seated, I let go. She tucks her legs to one side and scooches over.

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