Page 41 of Natural Temptation

She silences me with a finger to my lips. "We've all got baggage, Ryan. I'm not looking for perfect. I'm looking for real. Tell me more when you're ready."

The next morning, I wake before dawn, a plan forming in my mind. I slip out of bed, careful not to disturb Meredith, and make a few quick calls.

When she stirs an hour later, I'm waiting with two cups of coffee and a grin. "How do you feel about snorkeling?"

Her eyes light up. "I've always wanted to try it."

"Perfect." I hand her a mug. "Because I've got a whole day planned for us."

We spend the morning exploring the vibrant underwater world surrounding Heirani Motu. Meredith's delight at every colorful fish and the swaying coral is infectious. Her hand finds mine beneath the water, and I realize I've never felt so at peace.

After lunch, we paddle a canoe to a secluded inlet I discovered during my early days on the island. As the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, I build a small fire on the beach.

Meredith leans back on her elbows, watching the flames dance "This is incredible. I feel like I'm in a movie."

I settle in beside her. "Wait till you taste dinner. I packed some local specialties."

While we eat, our conversation flows easily, touching on hopes and dreams, fears and insecurities. With every word, I feel the walls I've built around my heart slowly crumbling.

Once our meal is finished, I know it's time to explain. "Mer, I'm ready to tell you about my nightmares."

She takes my hand, her touch gentle and encouraging. "I'm listening."

And so, under a canopy of stars, I finally let the whole story spill out—the nightmares that often plague my sleep, the lingering guilt over not being able to save my best friend. Even when I explain that my dreams often result in me thrashing and shouting, Meredith listens without judgment. Her presence is a balm to my battered soul.

When I finish, she cups my face in her hands. "Thank you for trusting me with this."

Then she pulls me into a kiss that speaks volumes, more than I could ever find the words to explain.

Later, as we make love on the warm sand, I feel my soul unburdening, lifting the weight that had held me down for so long. The ghosts of my past haven't disappeared, but for the first time in years, I can see a future beyond them—a future with Meredith by my side.

The gentle lapping of waves against our canoe mingles with the rhythm of my heartbeat as Meredith and I fall asleep on the sand. In the morning, we paddle back to the resort.

"Race you to the beach?" she challenges.

I grin, feeling lighter than I have in years. "You're on, sunshine."

We sprint across the sand, laughing like kids. When we reach the main trail, I catch her hand in mine, savoring the warmth of her skin against my palm.

"Last night was..." I start, searching for the right words.

Meredith squeezes my fingers. "I know. Me too."

We walk in comfortable silence, admiring the lush greenery of Heirani Motu. Suddenly, I can see myself living on this island for good, staying on as general manager, not just for a while but forever. I only want to do that if Meredith stays with me. I have a sneaking suspicion she'll love the idea.

As we approach the resort, reality starts to creep back in. I sigh, knowing I need to slip back into manager mode.

"Duty calls?" Meredith asks, a hint of understanding in her voice.

I nod, reluctantly releasing her hand. "I'll find you later?"

"Count on it," she winks, heading toward her bungalow.

I watch her go, my mind already plotting ways to steal more time with her. But as I turn toward the front desk, Mariel's panicked face stops me in my tracks.

"Ryan!" she calls, her usually soft voice pitched high with worry. "We have a situation!"

"What's wrong?" I ask, instantly on alert.

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