Page 40 of The Bride and the Billionaire Grump

It’s obviously not as straightforward as I once thought.

I can breathe now that I know he’ll take care of everything with the money.

Another weight has been lifted.

I feel like I’m floating on a cloud, and I don’t want to come down.

Aaron, meanwhile, still seemed extremely stressed, which is why I suggested a day of fun. I think it’s what we both need.

I put on a black bikini and a light cotton dress and sandals and make my way downstairs.

I’m pleasantly surprised to see Aaron ready in board shorts and a T-shirt. It’s the first time I’ve seen him in something this casual. Even on the beach they had him in fancier outfits, like he was about to head straight into a business meeting.

I can’t help but notice how good his arms look,hello muscles. Why did they have him hiding those?

I only got a brief peek when we were changing into our snorkeling gear; not enough to fully appreciate them.

I smile as I reach the final step. “Must be nice to dress like you’re actually going to the beach.”

“Sorry, I left my stripper clothes and bank robber attire at my other mansion.”

I snap my fingers. “Dang.”

He laughs and I notice a slight dimple in his cheek. It’s cute. I wonder why I haven’t noticed it until now.

Maybe because I’ve been focused on hating him.

“Where to?” we say in unison.

“You own a house here. Surely you know some places?” I challenge.

Aaron looks at Sienna who is laughing like it’s the funniest thing she’s ever heard.

She walks over to the driver and tells him where to go.

“Ladies first.” Aaron gestures for me to get into the car first.

I’m grateful it’s not a limo this time. That was a bit ostentatious.

I nod, still unsure how today will play out.

Our relationship up until now has been strained at best. I’ve heard good things about him, and he certainly didn’t have to let me stay here or make sure I get paid, but is that him feeling obligated? Is it another PR strategy? Either way, it’ll be interesting.

We sit in a comfortable silence as we both take the time to look at the natural beauty around us. The weather is perfect, and I’m feeling ready for a day of adventure.

Maybe this is the experience I need to heal myself and my soul after everything that happened.

I watch as we pass a blur of trees and sand until we pull up to a wharf on the water. It’s a part of the island I’m not familiar with. I don’t remember reading about it before I came here, either.

As if reading my mind, the driver explains. “This is a local secret. We don’t take many tourists here because it would ruin the magic of it.”

There’s a bustling market and a few restaurants. There’s an intangible vibrancy in the colors and in the air. It feels like exactly what I’ve been searching for.

The driver points to one of the restaurants. “Chef has made a reservation and made sure that a feast will be waiting for you.”

I realize he’s talking to me. “Oh, wow. That wasn’t necessary, but thank you.”

I feel myself blush a little. I can’t believe how kind Aaron’s staff have been.

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