Page 18 of Knot Your Sunshine
Cole's gaze sweeps the lobby in a practiced pattern. "Multiple escape routes. Good sight lines. Minimal choke points. I approve."
"Of course that's what you notice," Elena teases, nudging him with her hip.
"Miss Everly?" A woman behind the reception desk smiles as we approach. Her name tag reads 'Leilani' in elegant script, and fresh plumeria tucked behind her ear matches her lavender uniform. "We've been expecting you."
"Hi, yes, that's me." My voice comes out smaller than intended, like I'm twelve and checking into a hotel for the first time.
Her fingers dance across a keyboard hidden beneath the desk's lip. "Here we are. The Ali'i Royal Suite."
"The Aleehee Royal Suite?" I attempt the pronunciation, hoping I'm getting it right.
"Our premier accommodation." Leilani's smile widens, revealing perfect teeth. "Your suite features a panoramic ocean view, a private terrace with full amenities, and complimentary access to everything the resort offers, including our spa and private beach."
My brain short-circuits somewhere between "ocean view" and "spa."
"Your escort will show you to your suite." She gestures to a young man in crisp resort uniform who appears so suddenly I wonder if there's a secret door I missed. "Koa will ensure you're properly settled. Your luggage is already waiting inside."
"I... thank you."
Elena pulls me into a quick hug, her excitement vibrating through the embrace. "I'm so excited for you."
* * *
"The Ali'i Royal Suite, Miss Everly." Koa stops at a door with carved handles, and opens it with a flourish.
I step inside and my jaw literally drops.
The entryway opens into a living space bigger than my entire Lakeview apartment, afternoon sunlight pouring through floor-to-ceiling windows.
I drift forward, my feet moving without conscious thought. My fingers trail along the back of a curving couch upholstered in silk. A welcome basket the size of a small table overflows with tropical fruits and a bottle of champagne.
The bedroom draws me next. A king-sized bed drowns in pristine white linens, and a golden throw at the foot of the bed shimmers with embroidered sea turtles. Original paintings line the walls: outrigger canoes cutting through waves, colorful fishes gliding through coral gardens, a volcano erupting under starlight.
I head toward a glass door and slide it open to step onto a balcony that seems to run the entire length of the suite. A hot tub steams in one corner, built into the railing so you can soak while staring at the ocean, and lounge chairs with thick cushions invite afternoon naps.
Then I look out, and gasp loud enough to startle a bird from a nearby palm.
The view stretches on forever, the ocean unfurling in three shades of blue, just like I saw from the helicopter: turquoise near the shore, deepening to sapphire, then fading into navy where the seafloor vanishes. Below, a flawless crescent of white sand cradles the shoreline, waves curling in with a soothing rhythm.
"I can't believe this is real," I whisper to the ocean breeze.
My phone buzzes against my hip, breaking the spell. I pull it out.
Elena:Our suite is RIDICULOUS! Five bedrooms! How's yours?
I type back:I think I might be in an actual palace. Haven't even found the bathroom yet!
Elena:Coming here was the best idea ever. Can't wait to seeeverything this place has to offer.
Me:Beach in an hour? Gives us time to shower.
Elena:Perfect, see you there!
I slip my phone back into my pocket, a smile tugging at my lips. Maybe Josh's boss arriving in a few days isn't a bad thing after all…
* * *
I tilt my face toward the sun with a contented sigh, the lounge chair cradling me as waves whisper against the shore in a steady rhythm.
