Page 20 of Forbidden Fruit

Kay gives me a knowing look as I cross back to Jack's side. "Clive giving you the full Cozumel sales pitch? He's practically the island's unofficial ambassador."

"Just talking about snorkeling," I reply, settling beside Jack, who drapes his arm around me possessively.

"We're going deep-sea fishing tomorrow," Jack announces. "Mom's arranged it with some local bigwig."

"Oh." I try to hide my disappointment. "I was hoping to snorkel at the reef."

Jack rolls his eyes. "You can do that anytime. This is a connection that can help my career."

I want to point out that I can't, in fact, snorkel at the second-largest reef in the world "anytime," but I swallow the words. This weekend is about us moving forward. I won't ruin it by starting an argument.

"Sounds fun," I lie, leaning into him.

The rest of the flight passes quickly. When we land, the heat hits me like a wall as we descend the stairs to the tarmac. The air smells of salt and tropical flowers, and I feel excited despite my disappointment about tomorrow's plans.

A sleek black SUV waits for us, the driver holding a sign with "BISHOP" printed in bold letters. Clive directs the loading of our luggage while Kay fusses with her hat and sunglasses.

"Becca, you're with us," Jack says, guiding me toward a second vehicle I hadn't noticed—a convertible with another driver.

I glance back at Clive, who gives me a brief nod before turning to speak with his driver. As we pull away, I watch him in the side mirror until he disappears from view.

What's the hell wrong with me?

Clive

The early afternoon sun beats down on my shoulders as I step out onto the deck of Casa Azul. The infinity pool stretches before me, its azure waters merging seamlessly with the Caribbean beyond. I inhale deeply, savoring the salt-tinged air that always reminds me why I bought this place. Here, I can breathe.

Old habits die hard, even on what's supposed to be a vacation. The others are still sleeping off last night's welcome dinner—notably Jack, who predictably overindulged in the tequila I'd reserved for special occasions. Kay retired early, claiming jet lag but more likely plotting her next social maneuver.

But then I see her—Rebecca—stretched out on one of the loungers by the pool. Her black bikini starkly contrasts her pale skin, a book propped on her lap. She hasn't noticed me yet, and I take a moment to observe her. Without Jack hovering, her posture is different—relaxed, unguarded. She absently twirls a strand of dark hair around her finger as she reads, completely absorbed.

I clear my throat as I approach, not wanting to startle her. "Glad to see I'm not the only one eager to take advantage of the sun."

She looks up, shielding her eyes from the sun. "Oh! Hello, Clive." She sits up straighter, adjusting her bikini top in a self-conscious gesture that makes me avert my eyes momentarily.

"I was about to make myself a drink. Now that we're on vacation, can I get you something stronger?"

"Something with juice would be wonderful, thank you." She marks her place in her book—something with a historical-looking cover. "This is the first moment of peace I've had in months and I don't want to miss a second."

I nod, moving to the outdoor bar. "I never truly stop working but when I'm here, I like to savor every minute of leisure I can." I prepare two Palomas and settle into the lounger next to hers, conscious of maintaining a respectful distance. The poolside is spacious, with six loungers arranged around the infinity edge, but I've chosen the one closest to her.

"Hangover?" I ask, nodding toward the house where, no doubt, Jack lies unconscious.

She smiles ruefully. "Epic one.

"Some things never change." I take a sip before continuing. "I hope you're not too disappointed about missing the snorkeling tomorrow."

Her expression flickers briefly. "It's fine. The fishing will be... educational." She attempts enthusiasm but falls short.

"You know," I say carefully, "the boat Jack and Kay are taking doesn't leave until eleven. That gives us about three hours if we get an early start. The reef at Palancar is only twenty minutes away by boat. "I could take you out myself. I have a smaller boat in the marina that's perfect for two."

Her eyes light up, and something tightens in my chest. "Really? You wouldn't mind?"

"Not at all." I take another sip of my Paloma, savoring the tartness. "The sunrise over the reef is something everyone should experience at least once."

Becca's smile warms me more than the Caribbean sun. "That would be amazing. Jack mentioned you were an excellent sailor."

"Did he now?" I can't hide my surprise. Jack rarely compliments me.

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