Page 32 of Natural Temptation

"Oh, I never said that."

We reach the airport shortly, rejoining our group on the tarmac. My friends give me knowing looks, but I can't bring myself to care. As we board the plane, I catch Ryan's eye, andwe're both grinning like idiots. I guess we've given up on hiding our feelings for each other.

The toy stays in my purse—at least until we're back at the resort.

Already this vacation has surpassed my wildest dreams, and we're just getting started. I can't wait to see what other adventures await us on Heirani Motu.

Chapter Ten

Ryan

The jet's engines hum as we climb aboard, our bodies weary but our spirits soaring. Rene and I help all the ladies get up the stairs, and we provide the same courtesy to the men who have arthritis or bad knees. Yes, Au Naturel is a full-service resort.

"Looks like Suva did a number on you lot." Rene grins and winks. "But it's the good kind of exhaustion, eh?"

I settle into my seat, stealing a glance at Meredith from across the aisle. Her cheeks are flushed, and she clutches her oversized purse close. I know what's hidden inside, and the mere thought of it makes my dick begin to rouse. But as we take off, my mind wanders to all the possibilities that little toy represents. I imagine Meredith's soft skin and the hungry noises she makes. But exhaustion falls over me like a lead blanket, and I know we're both too spent for any adventures tonight.

Back at the resort, we part ways with lingering backward gazes.

Meredith blows me a kiss. "Sweet dreams, Ryan."

I watch her retreating figure until she disappears into her bungalow.

Hours later, I leave my bungalow and slip out into the night. Why? Because Meredith texted me:Come to the beach now—and be naked.The moon hangs low, casting silver light across the resort grounds as I race toward my destination. When Iapproach the main trail, I finally ditch my T-shirt and shorts. I move quietly, acutely of every twig and leaf beneath my feet. A secret rendezvous in the dead of night is crazy, but can't deny I'm itching to find out what Meredith has in mind.

I halt at the trail's end, letting myself catch my breath.

The beach stretches before me, a pale ribbon in the darkness.

And there she is.

Meredith stands at the water's edge, her curvy silhouette etched against the shimmering ocean. My breath catches. She's a vision, wild and free, her hair dancing in the sea breeze.

As I draw closer, I feel my heart beating faster. This feels forbidden, exhilarating. For a moment, I forget about my past, about the weight I carry. Here, now, there's only Meredith and the promise of the night ahead.

"Well, well, look who's right on time," Meredith says. "I was starting to think you might stand me up."

"And miss out on a moonlit rendezvous? Not a chance."

She steps closer, and I drink in the sight of her. The moonlight caresses her curves, casting a silvery glow on her skin. She reaches out to trace a fingertip along my jawline. "You know, Ryan, I'm glad that serious face of yours wasn't permanent. You have a beautiful smile."

I catch her hand in mine, pressing a kiss to her palm. "You brought out my lighter side. I didn't know I could feel this...light. As if a weight has been lifted."

"Well, I intend to bring out a lot more than that tonight."

"In what ways?"

She nods toward a blanket spread out on the sand. "Why don't we get more comfortable and find out?"

As we settle onto the blanket, the rhythmic lapping of waves on the shore provides a sensual soundtrack.

"Close your eyes," she whispers.

I comply, helpless to resist her, and my other senses begin to heighten in the darkness. I feel something soft brush against my wrists—silk, I realize. My breath hitches as Meredith gently binds my hands.

She brushes her fingers over my cheek. "Is this okay?"

"Yeah, it's more than okay." But I'm somewhat surprised by how much I trust her. "I like this. Keep going."

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