Page 12 of Hot Moves

Because somehow, this beautiful, innocent woman has become a beacon of light in my dark, treacherous existence. And that is something worth fighting for.

SEVEN

MIRA

The gentle swayof the yacht rocks me subtly, like a lullaby whispered by the ocean. My stateroom is quiet, the only sounds the distant hum of the engines and the soft rustling of the waves against the hull. I sit on the edge of the bed, staring at the phone in my hand, lost in thought.

Lorenzo. His name circles my mind, intertwining with images of his dark eyes that hold so many secrets, so much depth. Despite the danger that seems to wrap around him like a shroud, there’s a gentleness in him, a protective side that he shows me. It’s both comforting and confusing.

I sigh and pick up my phone, knowing I need to send a message to Lila. She’s a worrier, and the last thing I want is for her to panic. I compose a quick text, keeping my tone light.

Me

Just got home from the airport! I’m exhausted. Call you soon. Love you!

The lie tastes bitter, but it’s necessary. I need her to believe everything is normal, that I’m safe and sound. I hit send before I can second-guess myself and then set the phone down on the nightstand.

A few seconds later, her return text comes through.

Little sis

I’m dead on my feet, too. I work all day tomorrow and the next day so I won’t be around much. I’ll call when I can.

For once, I’m grateful for my sister’s busy schedule. Hopefully, by the time she gets around to calling me, I won’t have to lie to her about what’s happening.

I get up and walk over to the small porthole, staring out at the endless expanse of dark water. The moon’s reflection shimmers on the surface, casting a silver path that seems to lead straight into the unknown. Much like my life now, ever since Lorenzo stepped into it.

There’s a gentle knock on the door. It’s one of the crew, bringing a tray with a pitcher of water and a glass. I thank them quietly, taking the tray and placing it on the table. The routine helps settle my nerves, and soon, I find myself climbing into the plush, comfortable bed.

I snuggle under the soft covers, the cool sheets gradually warming with my body heat. The bed is luxurious, a far cry from my modest bed back home in Florida. It feels like I’m floating away from reality, cocooned in this temporary safe haven.

But sleep doesn’t come easily. My thoughts are consumed by Lorenzo’s protective nature and the way his strong presence makes me feel safe despite the chaos. I close my eyes, his face etched behind my eyelids. Those dark, intense eyes of his seem to see right through to my soul.

Finally, exhaustion takes over, and I drift off into a deep sleep. My dreams are vivid, filled with images of Lorenzo. We’re back on the yacht, but everything is bathed in an ethereal light. He’s standing at the edge of the deck, looking out at the horizon, his posture both powerful and solitary.

I approach him, my footsteps silent on the wooden deck. When he turns to me, his eyes are as dark and mysterious as ever, but there’s a softness there, a vulnerability that he keeps hidden from the world.

“Lorenzo,” I say, my voice echoing around us.

He reaches out, and I take his hand, feeling the warmth and strength in his grip. “Mira,” he replies, his voice a soothing balm. “You’re safe with me.”

The dream shifts, and we’re in a place I don’t recognize. All around us, I see an endless ocean under a sky filled with stars.We’re alone, but I don’t feel afraid. Instead, there’s a sense of peace, of understanding that transcends words.

He pulls me close, and I rest my head against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. It’s a sound that anchors me, reminding me that, even in the midst of uncertainty, there is a place of safety. There’s a person who stands as my protector.

When I wake, the morning light filters softly into the stateroom. I lie still for a moment, the remnants of the dream lingering in my mind. His dark eyes and reassuring presence are engrained in my thoughts now, a part of me.

I stretch, feeling the gentle sway of the yacht as it continues its journey. Today is a new day, with its own challenges and uncertainties, but there’s a sense of resolve within me. Whatever happens, I know I’ll face whatever comes with Lorenzo by my side.

The bathroom is small but well-appointed, the shower offering a steady stream of hot water. I let it wash over me, trying to clear my mind and settle my nerves. Thoughts of Lorenzo linger, his dark eyes haunting my dreams and waking moments alike. There’s a strange comfort in knowing he’s nearby, even as the dangers of his world encircle us.

After drying off, I slip into my swimsuit and pull a lightweight summer dress on over it.

Taking a deep breath, I open the door and step out into the hallway. A security guard stationed down the hall nods at me, his expression professional but not unkind. “Good morning, Miss Jones. If you’re ready, I’ll show you to the main deck.”

I nod and take a deep breath to calm my nerves. “Thank you.”

The hallways of the yacht are quiet, the gentle rocking of the vessel creating a soothing rhythm. As we walk, I try to focus on the serenity of my surroundings, rather than the turmoil churning inside me. The security guard leads the way, and I realize his presence is both reassuring and a reminder of the stakes.

---