Page 67 of Embrace Me Forever

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GEORGIA-MAY

Blake’s Lambo glides across the road, weaving through the hills as we escape the city’s clutches.

“Should I put on some country tunes?” he offers.

“You remember,” I coo, giving his arm a playful squeeze.

“Of course I remember.”

“No, let’s play your music,” I decide, curious to hear his choice.

“All right, let’s see how you handle this.” He voice-activates an album.Linkin Park, the dashboard announces.

“Who’s Linkin Park?” I ask innocently.

He gives me a dramatic eye roll. “Really, Code Queen? You don’t know? They were my teenage survival kit! I practically wanted to be them.”

Turns out this guy had dreams beyond handcuffs and chasing bad guys. As the music kicks in, he bobs his head to the beat, looking unexpectedly adorable. Watching him, I can’t help but try to picture him as a teenager, hairbrush microphone in hand, dreaming of rock stardom. Honestly, this version of Blake, unabashedly jamming in his seat, is him at his absolute best.

The drive feels too brief, but a new marvel unfolds before me. It’s like stepping into a hidden world, a secluded resort nestled among towering palms and lush greenery.

Blake parks the car, and as we step out, I take in the serene surroundings. The resort is stunning, with elegant, low-rise buildings that blend seamlessly with the landscape. Paths lined with tropical plants lead to private bungalows, each tucked away behind a veil of nature.

“This is spectacular,” I whisper, in awe of the tranquility around us.

Blake leads me down one of the pathways. “Thought you might like it.”

We reach our suite, where the door opens into an airy room with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer a breathtaking view of our own private garden. The decor is minimalist but glamorous, neutral tones accented with touches of natural wood and crisp white linens.

Beyond the sliding glass doors, there’s a private terrace surrounded by greenery and blooming flowers, creating a sensory paradise. The garden is completely enclosed, creating a world of its own. And in the middle of it, there’s a hot tub.

“I don’t have a swimsuit,” I admit.

Blake tries to maintain a straight face. “Didn’t I tell you to get everything you needed?”

I fumble for words. “Well, you didn’t specify ‘might need.’”

Laughing, Blake wraps his arms around me from behind, his breath warm on my neck. “Don’t worry, my dear. I’ve taken care of everything. We won’t miss out on this special moment.”

He briefly steps back inside, then reappears, holding a sleek black box tied with a gold ribbon.

Eagerly, I lift the lid and peel back the delicate tissue paper to discover what’s inside. My eyes widen at the sight of a navy blue bikini, its fabric catching the light with subtle, elegantaccents. The strings are intricately woven with golden threads and embellished with tiny pearls. And as if he anticipated my every wish, there’s also a matching silk robe.

It’s been a while—since before Coco was born—that I’ve even thought about being near water, aside from bath time. The prospect of slipping into a swimsuit rattles my nerves, yet the idea of doing it for him stirs an unexpected jolt of excitement. Somehow, just as he said, it feels special.

“I…I don’t know what to say,” I stammer, lost for words. My fingers trace the fabric again, hardly believing these fine garments are mine.

“It’s not just for today. Now you and Coco can splash around in Rob’s pool. Remember the doctor said it’d be good for her?” He adds a wink.

That’s an idea!

Recalling the website he once showed me, where prices were conspicuously absent, I can’t help but tease. “Why do I get the feeling you’re quite the expert at shopping for the ladies?” I ask, arching an eyebrow.

He grins. “Honestly? Never done the whole bikini shopping thing before. But you wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve mentally rehearsed this moment. You know, the ‘fake it till you make it’ strategy?”

“Hmm…” I muse, playing along. “I have to say, your practice paid off. I love it.” I brush my fingers fondly over his arm.

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