Page 64 of Natural Temptation

"Yes, I remember," I tell Maya, recalling the distinguished gentleman who'd arrived on the last flight. He'd certainly cut an impressive figure, even sans clothing.

"Well," Maya drawls, her grin widening, "we spotted him down by the lagoon this morning, and he wasn't alone."

"Oh, it's even better than that," Zara asserts. "He was with none other than Mrs. Hemsworth."

My jaw drops. "No way. Elaine Hemsworth? The one who's always complaining about the buffet and curling her lip at the idea of eating at a 'common trough,' as she calls it?"

Lila nods emphatically. "The very same. And let me tell you, she wasn't complaining this morning. In fact, she looked positively radiant."

Ryan chuckles, crossing his arms as he leans against the doorframe. "Let me guess. Mrs. Hemsworth found some company at the Coconut Bar last night."

"Got it in one."

I have trouble picturing prim and proper Elaine letting loose with our mysterious new guest. "Well, good for her. Maybe she'll find her next husband on the island and learn how to chill out."

"Speaking of relaxation..."—Maya extracts a small package from her bag—"we brought you a little something for your trip."

I lean in closer as Maya hands me a beautifully wrapped package tied with a silky ribbon. "What's this?"

"Just a little bon voyage gift," Zara explains with a wink. "Something to help you two lovebirds make the most of your travels."

I glance at Ryan, who's watching with equal interest, before I carefully untie the ribbon. As the wrapping falls away, I let out a delighted laugh. Inside is an assortment of massage oils, scented candles, and what appears to be a book of sensual games for couples.

"You guys!" I exclaim. "This is...wow."

Ryan peers over my shoulder, his warm breath tickling my cheek. "Well, it looks like we won't be lacking for entertainment on our trip."

I feel a flutter in my stomach at his steamy tone, imagining all the ways we could put these gifts to use. I turn to my friends. "Thank you all. This is so thoughtful."

"We just want to make sure you two have a memorable time," Lila says. "After all, it's not every day you get to tour nudist resorts around the world."

"Speaking of which," Zara chimes in, "we should probably let you finish packing. Your flight leaves in a few hours, right?"

I bite my lip, suddenly aware of how much we still need to do before heading to the airport. "Yes, we should really get backto it. But thank you again for stopping by and for this lovely gift. We'll definitely put it to good use."

While my friends file out of the bungalow, giving us hugs and well-wishes, I turn back to Ryan, who's watching me intently. He lets the sarong slip to the floor as he approaches me. "So, shall we test out some of those massage oils before we go?"

"Tempting as that is, we really do need to finish packing."

He pulls me close, his hands warm and deliciously rough on my bare skin. "Are you sure? We could always pack later and take an earlier flight tomorrow."

"Better not. We have obligations, after all."

Ryan sighs and goes back to packing.

For a moment, I simply bask in the glow of knowing a hot younger man loves, until his brow furrows slightly. He reaches for his tablet, pulling up a detailed checklist.

"Speaking of our upcoming adventure," he begins, his voice taking on that familiar, focused tone, "we should review the resort operations before we leave."

I smile and shake my head. Even on the brink of our grand excursion, Ryan's mind is on Heirani Motu. It's endearing, really.

"All right, Mr. Responsible," I tease, peering over his shoulder. "What's first on the list?"

Ryan scrolls through the items, his eyes scanning each point meticulously. "Staff schedules, inventory, maintenance...oh, and we need to brief Mariel on handling guest inquiries."

"Okay, that's a good idea." But I really just want to get on Rene's jet and start our big trip. But I am his right-hand woman, so I will indulge him. "We should also remind the activities team about the new sunrise yoga sessions. And maybe we could ask Rhonda to lead an extra snorkeling tour while we're gone? Guests love those."

Ryan looks up at me, a hint of surprise and admiration in his gaze. "Good thinking, Mer. I'll add that to the list."

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