Page 85 of The Daredevil

He looked more exhausted than I’d ever seen him. “You need more sleep. That’s an order.”

“I’ve got some deadlines to meet, but I’ll sleep early tonight.”

The announcement for my flight boomed through the airport, and I kissed him, breaking free from his embrace. “Don’t cause trouble without me. Save it for me.”

I loved the handsome smile on his face. “I only want to cause trouble with you. Have a safe flight.”

Waving goodbye, I headed to my terminal and discovered Royce had upgraded my seat to first class.

After tucking my carry-on into the overhead compartment, I settled into my roomy seat and closed my eyes. Two months had flown by, yet there were moments that seemed to have remained still. So many precious memories left their mark on my heart.

People were right when they said life could change in a split second. Mine did in Iceland. I fell in love. Royce didn’t know it, and even I couldn’t believe it. The feeling was new and exciting, and I needed time for it to settle. Perhaps the distance between us would allow the heart to acclimate to this newness. Right now, I was vulnerable because my heart was open to Royce for the taking.

“Crap!” a woman shouted near me.

I opened my eyes and turned. A stunning woman crouched on the floor, picking up scattered contents from her purse. She had dirty blonde hair piled up into a bun and wore an aqua top with dark knit pants.

I got out of my seat and picked up some travel-sized bottles of lotions and creams from the Blue Lagoon for her. “Here you go.”

“Oh, thank you very much,” she said with a slight European accent. “I’m Natalie. Nice to meet you.”

“I’m Michelle. I see you’re a fan of the Blue Lagoon.”

“Yes. I’ve been there a few times. But this visit was for a bachelorette party,” she whispered. “I didn’t want to go, but it’s a family friend. You know how that is.”

“I understand. Well, next time you should visit NewYou Beauty Resort. They have a freshwater lagoon, a seawater spa, and excellent beauty products. Ilovethem.”

I should get a commission for promoting NewYou Beauty like this.

“I’ll try them out next time.”

Natalie had big blue eyes that reminded me of a clear blue sky and flawless skin that would make women envy her. Even with no makeup, she looked gorgeous.

I returned to my seat and continued the conversation with my new neighbor, who sat across the aisle from me.

“Do you live in Providence or a nearby city?” Natalie asked.

“In Providence. You?”

“Same. I work for the city, so it makes it easier.”

“I don’t mean to pry, but you have a lovely accent. Where are you from?”

“France, but I’ve been learning English since I was a child.”

The flight flew by, and Natalie and I became fast friends. She also liked to travel and promised to visit my blog when she got home. We exchanged numbers, and I invited her to our girls’ night out. I knew Audri and Kiera would love her.

Royce had arranged for a car to pick me up. I checked my phone to find a message from him.

His name is Bob, and he’s a trusted driver.You can go with him.

Royce even attached a full photo of Bob for me to see. He had short white hair, a friendly face, and a round belly.

Michelle:Landed safely. Thanks for the car service.

Royce:You’re welcome. Miss you.

Michelle:Miss you more. (heart emoji) Gotta go. Chat later.

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