Page 14 of NYE in The Cayman Islands

“Time to relax and think about all the things I have planned for you tonight, my beautiful wife,” I tease, biting her on the ear and then pulling her in for another more passionate kiss.

“Let’s go, people, we have a boat to catch and food to eat,” I call out as I lead the way to the dock.

My head is still wrapped up in thoughts about Bella and how I plan to make her feel so special tonight.

She deserves it.

Chapter Four

ARABELLA

We spent the afternoon lying on the deck of the yacht, with the most beautiful spread of fruits, cheeses, and selection of cold meat. Then we were served hot finger food that just kept coming all afternoon, luckily slowing down the effects of the many glasses of alcohol that have been consumed today. We need to pace ourselves, otherwise we will never get through to midnight.

I often wonder as we get older if our tradition of New Year’s Eve will be a group of old men and women asleep on the couch of wherever we have ventured off to that year, probably by ten pm.

To be honest, we could only be so blessed if we are all still healthy and happy into our old age and celebrating another year together.

Watching the sunset from the water was special, my head in Tate’s lap as he leaned back in the seat on the deck, his hand just gently running through my hair and softly massaging my scalp. I drifted off to sleep for a little while to the sound of the water lapping the boat and the rocking of the waves. We had all pairedup and there wasn’t much talking, which is a miracle for us as a group, but it was almost like we just took the time to be one with nature and be with the person we loved. No kids, no work, no outside craziness of our lives, just the pure peace of the moment.

We may have been complaining about the busyness of the morning with all of Tate’s activities, but he knew what he was doing. He got it all out of the way, using up the energy that the guys have, and then finished the afternoon perfectly.

“As we had a late lunch, I’ve organized for dinner to be served at eight thirty tonight at our residence on the balcony. So, you have two hours to fill however you wish, but please don’t be late for dinner. I don’t want to hold the staff up so they’re still working at midnight.” Tate gives everyone the last instructions as we split to head off to our own residences.

“Who the hell is this responsible man acting like an adult? And concerned about everyone being late? It’s almost like you have swapped bodies with Lex.” Mason grins, just waiting for a reaction.

“Ewww, do not say shit like that. I don’t want to think about touching any of his body,” Tate replies at the same time that Lex yells at Mason too.

“You say it like it’s a bad thing that I’m responsible and own a watch. Someone has to give a fuck about being on time in this group.”

“You know Tate only ever does it to piss you all off, right?” I can’t help but laugh as I say it.

“Yes!” is the resounding answer from everyone around us.

“On that note, fuck you all and see you at eight thirty.” Tate takes me by the hand, and we leave them behind and walk into our residence.

My heart is fluttering a bit, and the sinking feeling in my stomach is there, but I know I can’t wait any longer. If I’m goingto do this, I need to do it now so the night isn’t ruined by my mood.

“I’ve been waiting all day to get you to myself. Come here, baby.” Tate is standing in the living room with his arms outstretched as I put down the beach bag.

There is nothing better than a Tate hug. His strong arms around me holding me tight, my cheek on his chest and ear above his heart. Knowing that every beat I hear is for me and our kids.

“How about we have a shower together and wash off the day. I mean, it’s not about me wanting to get you naked or anything.” He brings his finger under my chin and tilts my head up to look at him, giving him full access to my lips as he kisses me ever so gently.

I could so easily let him take me to the shower and then bed and just push this conversation to the side, but I promised the girls; plus, I owe it to myself and Tate, for that matter, to be honest with him. To hold my hand out and not only ask for help but be willing to accept it too.

“Can we talk first?” I look up into those eyes that look like he is getting ready to devour me.

“Of course. And I hope it is to tell me what is bothering you, because I’ve been concerned for a while, and you keep brushing me off.” Tate slides his hands under my ass and lifts me up. My legs instinctively wrap around him.

“Tate,” I squeal.

“What, I just thought we could take a seat on the couch, and I want you as close as possible. AKA in my lap.” He is trying to keep it light, but I can tell in his eyes that he is concerned.

As he drops down into what looks like a very comfy couch, he takes me with him so I’m straddling his lap.

“I want you facing me while we talk.” Tate’s voice is soft and caring. In my head I’m thinking it would have been easier for meto be close in his arms but not have to look at him and see the disappointment when I start to talk. Not in me, but just that I haven’t confided in him.

“The floor is yours, Tink.” His arms are now wrapped around my waist as he leans forward and kisses me on the lips.

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