Page 3 of Hot Moves

The handsome man in the middle nods, understanding lighting his eyes. "Early morning before the world wakes up and reality comes rushing in is the best time to enjoy the peace.”

I smile, appreciating his words. “Exactly. Plus, the breakfast here is amazing.”

His gaze softens just a touch, and I swear, for a second, his serious demeanor cracks, revealing something warmer underneath. “I’m sorry I won’t have the opportunity to give it a try, but business is calling me.”

I laugh lightly, the tension in the elevator easing fractionally. “It is a shame because the eggs benedict and mimosas are to die for.” There goes my runaway mouth again.

There’s a moment where I almost invite him to join, but the elevator dings, announcing our arrival at the lobby. The doors open, and the cool lobby air rushes in.

As we step out, his companions fall into step beside him. Their presence, though imposing, seems natural as if they’re protectors or maybe loyal friends. I can’t quite place it, but something about the way they move tells me there’s more to them than meets the eye.

“I hope you enjoy your breakfast,” he says, breaking my reverie.

“Thank you. And good luck with your business,” I reply, feeling oddly flushed.

We part ways in the lobby, me heading toward the dining area and them toward the exit. But before we disappear entirely from each other’s view, I glance back to find him doing the same. Our eyes meet once more, and for a fleeting second, the rest of the world fades away again. My heart does a funny little dance in my chest as the world tilts under my feet.

I can’t help but wonder who he is, what business brought him to this island, and why a simple elevator ride made me feel like I’d stepped into someone else’s story, if only for a moment.

Shaking off the strange encounter, I make my way to the terrace, the promise of a quiet breakfast beckoning. Yet, even as I sit down and place my order, I can’t shake the feeling that, in that brief, charged moment, my world shifted ever so slightly.

And I can’t help but hope I’ll get the opportunity to stare into those captivating eyes again.

The terrace is a perfect oasis, bathed in the soft golden light of the early morning sun. The sea breeze carries the scent of salt and tropical flowers, mingling with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I sit at a secluded table, the rustle of palms and distant cries of seagulls my only company.

My breakfast arrives: a plate of fresh tropical fruit, a warm croissant, and a steaming cup of coffee. As I reach for my fork, my phone buzzes on the table.

It’s a text from my sister, and I can almost hear her groggy voice as I read it.

Little sis

Hey, where’d you go?

Smiling, I take a quick sip of my coffee before replying.

Me

Went out for breakfast. You guys were all still out cold. Figured I’d let you sleep.

Moments later, her response comes through.

Little sis

You should’ve woken us! This is an all-girls trip, remember?

I can’t help but laugh. Even though I love my sister to pieces, she always did have a flair for drama.

Me

I know, I know. But trust me, you needed the sleep after last night. I’m just down on the main restaurant terrace. Come join me if you’re up for it!

I put my phone aside and savor a bite of ripe mango, its sweetness a delicious counterpoint to the robust coffee. Lost in the tranquility of the moment, I completely forget about the handsome stranger from the elevator.

The soft murmur of resort staff and the distant sound of waves crashing set a serene backdrop. Guests begin to trickle into the dining area, but I am happily ensconced in my little corner of peace.

Another text buzzes.

Little sis

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