Page 38 of Natural Temptation

Ryan

I wake to the gentle pressure of Meredith's body against mine, our limbs entangled like vines seeking sunlight. The soft cotton sheets whisper against our skin as I blink away the haze of sleep. Memories of last night flood back—exploring the curves and valleys of her body, breathless laughter whenever I tickled her with a feather, the intoxicating closeness of our newfound bond. But darker images lurk at the edges. Sand and blood and the echo of gunfire. I push the memories away, focusing on the warm weight of Meredith's head on my chest.

Did I snore? God, I hope not.

Her amber eyes flutter open, catching the fragile morning light that streams through the gossamer curtains. A slow smile spreads across her face. "Good morning, handsome."

I brush a wayward strand of hair from her cheek. "Morning, beautiful. Sleep well?"

"Mm, like a baby. You?"

I hesitate, unsure how to answer. Did she notice my restlessness, the cold sweat of nightmares? I decide to sidestep the issue. "Never better. Though I may have snored a bit."

She laughs, the sound as bright as the tropical birdsong outside. "Only a little. It was kind of cute, actually."

Relief washes through me. Crisis averted, for now. I pull her closer, savoring the softness of her skin against mine. "So, whatshould we do with our day? It's my weekend off, you know. Forty-eight glorious hours of nothing but you, me, and this island paradise."

"Oh, I can think of a few ideas..."

Before she can elaborate, a cheerful knock interrupts us. "Breakfast delivery!"

That's Marley's voice.

I reluctantly disentangle myself, wrapping a sheet around my waist as I answer the door. Marley's grin widens as she takes in my disheveled state.

"Well, don't you look relaxed, boss," she teases, wheeling in a cart laden with covered dishes. The aroma of fresh fruit and coffee fills the air. "You know, this is a nudist resort, and it's your day off. Why not embrace the lifestyle?"

I try to maintain some semblance of professionalism, but I can feel cheeks heating up. "Thanks, Marley. That'll be all."

She winks as she leaves. "Enjoy your day off, you two."

As soon as the door clicks shut, Meredith bursts into laughter. "Your face...You looked like a teenager caught climbing out your girlfriend's window."

I roll my eyes but can't help grinning. "Come on, let's see what culinary delights await us."

We settle on the balcony, the lush greenery of Heirani Motu spread before us like a verdant carpet. Meredith picks up a ripe mango, its golden flesh glistening.

"Open up," she commands playfully.

I oblige, and she slides a juicy piece between my lips. The sweetness explodes on my tongue.

"My turn," I say, selecting a plump strawberry. I trace it along her lower lip before she takes a delicate bite. A drop of crimson juice lingers at the corner of her mouth. I lean in, kissing it away.

"Mm, yummy," she hums appreciatively. "So, what adventure do you have planned for us today, Mr. Resort Manager?"

I consider our options, my gaze drawn to the sparkling waters beyond the beach. "How about kayaking? We could explore the mangrove forests, maybe spot some of the island's rarer wildlife."

Meredith's eyes light up. "Yes! I've always wanted to try that."

As we continue our leisurely breakfast, I find myself marveling at how easy this feels. The weight I've carried for so long seems lighter in Meredith's presence. For the first time in years, I'm allowing myself to imagine a future beyond the next day, the next week.

It's terrifying. And exhilarating.

We begin our kayaking journey after breakfast. The gentle rhythm of our paddles breaking the water's surface fills the air as we glide through the dense mangrove forest, and Meredith's kayak keeps pace with mine.

"Ryan, look!" she whispers excitedly, pointing to a nearby branch. A vibrant kingfisher perches there, its electric blue feathers a stark contrast to the lush green surroundings.

I smile, reveling in her enthusiasm. "Beautiful, isn't it? This island never ceases to amaze me."

---