That One Summer: A Collection of Steamy Contemporary Romance

Chapter 4

With a daring glintin her eye, Jane leaned in close to Alex, her lips just inches from his, the anticipation hanging heavy in the air between them. She could feel the heat of his breath on her skin, a tantalizing reminder of the desire simmering beneath the surface.

”Care to continue this elsewhere?” she whispered, her voice barely above a murmur, her heart pounding with excitement.

A mischievous smile played across Alex”s lips as he met Jane”s gaze, his eyes smoldering with intensity. Without a word, he reached out, gently tracing his fingers along the curve of her jaw, sending shivers of pleasure coursing through her.

”I thought you”d never ask,” he replied, his voice husky with desire.

With a shared glance filled with unspoken understanding, Jane and Alex rose from their seats, their hands intertwined as they made their way out of the bar. As they stepped into the warm night air, a sense of adventure washed over them, the promise of what lay ahead sparking a fire within their souls.

With each step they took, Jane felt herself drawn deeper into the intoxicating allure of Alex, the thrill of the unknown beckoning her forward.

As Jane and Alex ventured into the night, their hearts racing with anticipation, they found themselves enveloped in a whirlwind of excitement and desire. Hand in hand, they navigated their way across the hotel”s landscaped gardens, heading towards the secluded bungalows reserved for high-end guests.

Jane couldn’t shake the realization that she hadn’t asked Alex about his occupation. During their conversation at the bar, he had attempted to steer towards more meaningful topics, but Jane, still reeling from being jilted, had deflected, preferring to keep the conversation light and carefree. That her groom had confessed his love for another on a note, while she waited for him in front of the church was not something she wanted to discuss with a handsome stranger. She had intentionally avoided discussing work or family matters, using the excuse of wanting to unwind during her holiday.

Alex had graciously respected her boundaries, shifting the conversation towards hobbies. Jane learned that Alex had a passion for boxing and often served as a sparring partner for professional fighters during their training. His athletic physique was a testament to his dedication to the sport.

As they approached one of the bungalows, Jane couldn’t help but wonder about Alex”s financial situation. ”How are you able to afford this?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.

Alex turned towards her, a playful glint in his eyes. ”My friend loaned it to me for my stay,” he replied with a smile.

Jane”s sheepish expression betrayed her embarrassment at assuming otherwise. ”Oh,” she said, feeling a mix of relief and embarrassment.

Alex stopped in front of one of the bungalows and opened the doors, inviting Jane inside. Stepping through the doorway, Jane found herself immersed in a clean, tastefully decorated paradise with a contemporary beach vibe. The living area was spacious, with three doors leading off from the main room. The entire back wall consisted of glass bifold doors, offering a stunning view of the beach. A jacuzzi and a swim-up pool adorned the back of the bungalow, adding to the luxurious ambiance. Jane”s eyes widened in amazement as she noticed a glass floor that doubled as an aquarium, showcasing a variety of tropical fish and completing the island vibe of the room.

”Your friend must be really generous,” Jane remarked, a playful tone in her voice. ”I think I need new friends,” she added with a grin.

Alex smiled softly and approached her, his gaze locked with hers. Jane could feel her heart racing as he drew nearer, the anticipation building between them. With a surge of courage, Jane reached out and gently cupped Alex”s face in her hands, her touch tender yet electric. They shared a smile that spoke volumes, leaning in for a tender kiss that ignited a firestorm of passion between them. In that moment, all thoughts of the outside world faded away, leaving only the two of them and the boundless potential of their connection.

As they pulled away, their eyes locked in a silent exchange filled with unspoken words. Jane blinked, the weight of the situation dawning on her. Despite her desires to embrace her new persona, she realized that she wasn”t ready for a one-night stand. Looking up at Alex sheepishly, she apologized, ”I”m sorry, but I”m feeling a bit tired. Can we call it a night?”

To her relief, Alex let out a soft laugh and reassured her, ”No worries, it”s getting late. I”ll walk you back to reception.” As they made their way through the main area of the hotel, Alex held her hand, looking into her eyes with sincerity. ”I had a great time tonight. I”d love to see you again. I have training early in the morning, but I”m free from midday. Would you like to meet me for brunch?”

Jane was pleasantly surprised by Alex”s invitation, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. Nodding eagerly, she replied, ”Sure,” as they exchanged numbers. ”I”ll send you the details.”

With a chaste kiss on her forehead, Alex watched as Jane stepped into the elevator, a smile playing on her lips as she replayed the events of the night in her mind.