Chapter Twenty-Two
Declan
"Japan?" Sabrina's eyes bulge, and she's almost gaping. Then she shakes her head, rather violently. "Declan, that's halfway around the world. What about Tabby's wedding? I can't miss that. As much as I love bouncing around the world with you, I need to be there for my sister."
"Relax, you won't miss anything. I'll make certain of that."
She gnaws on her bottom lip. "Well, if you're absolutely sure..."
"I promise you will be on time to your sister's nuptials." Since I still have the autopilot on, I pull Bree onto my lap so I can wrap my arms around her. "I have a mate who lives in Nikko. It's a beautiful, romantic destination. We'll need to make stops along the way to refuel, but even that long a trip won't take more than a day or so. Don't worry, love. We'll be back in plenty of time. I've got it all planned out."
She shakes her head, laughing despite herself. "You know, most people just go out for dinner when they get engaged."
"Ah, but we're not most people, are we?" I give her a quick kiss, then pat her arse. "Now, you need to return to your seat, please."
She climbs back onto her seat. "I trust you, Declan. You'll get me home in plenty of time."
"Thank you for the vote of confidence." I turn my attention back to the controls. "I thought you wanted an adventure, anyway."
"Yes, I do want that. But we can't tell anyone about our engagement yet." She bites her lip. "I wouldn't want to steal Tabitha's thunder. She deserves to be the center of attention."
"We will keep it a secret, for now." I lift my brows. "Does that mean I can't even buy you a ring yet?"
"Hmm, I'll need to think about that." As the reality of our impromptu engagement sinks in, a giddy excitement bubbles up inside me. "So, tell me about this friend of yours. And please tell me we're not staying in some kind of luxury resort that costs ten thousand dollars. I've had plenty of that, but I'd love something more low-key this time."
"Whatever you want, I shall provide." I chuckle at Bree's request. "Low-key, eh? I think I can manage that. My mate Inada Ren operates a traditional ryokan ---it's a type of Japanese inn---that's just outside the city of Nikko. Think sliding paper doors, futons on tatami mats, and hot spring baths under the stars."
Bree's expression lights up. "Hot springs? Now that sounds like my kind of adventure."
"I thought you might approve," I say, unable to keep the smugness from my voice. "And don't worry about the ring. We'll find something perfect when the time is right. For now, let's just enjoy the journey."
As we soar over the vast expanse of the Pacific, I replay my time with Declan in mind and can't believe how fast things have changed. Just a few weeks ago, I was a restless soul, drifting from one adventure to the next. Now, with Bree by my side, every moment feels like a new discovery.
"So, tell me more about this ryokan ," Bree says. "I've never stayed in one before."
I grin, picturing the serene beauty of Nikko. "It's nestled in the mountains, surrounded by ancient cedar trees and babbling brooks. The rooms are simple but elegant---all natural materials and clean lines. The onsen , the hot spring baths, are the real draw. There's nothing quite like soaking in mineral-rich waters while gazing up at the stars."
"Okay, it does sound magical. But...do we have to wear those kimono things? I'm not sure I can pull off that look."
"They're called yukata , actually. And yes, they're traditional, but don't worry---you'll look stunning in anything."
Bree rolls her eyes, but I note the hint of a blush on her cheeks. "Oh, Declan, you are the consummate sweet talker. But seriously, I'm going to need some serious guidance on Japanese etiquette. I don't want to offend anyone."
"That's what you've got me for, love," I say, reaching over to give her hand a squeeze. "Though I have to warn you, my Japanese is a bit rusty."
"Oh, fantastic," Bree laughs. "We'll be the clueless couple stumbling around, butchering the language and probably using the wrong chopsticks or something."
"Probably," I agree with a grin. "But that's half the fun, isn't it? Besides, Ren speaks excellent English. He'll keep us from making complete fools of ourselves."
"I thought his name was Inada."
"Sorry, pet, I should have explained. Japanese names are flipped round from the English-language perspective. His first name is Ren, and his surname is Inada."
Bree leans back in her seat, a dreamy look in her eyes. "I can't believe we're really doing this. Flying halfway around the world on a whim, staying in a traditional Japanese inn...it's like something out of a movie."
"Well, if it's a movie, I'd say we're the stars," I tease, giving her a wink. "Though I hope it's not one of those lost-in-translation comedies where everything goes wrong."
She snorts, shaking her head. "With our luck? It just might be. But you know what? I don't even care. As long as I'm with you, I'm up for anything."
While we soar through the sky, taking the requisite stops to refuel and find sustenance, we also share more of our pasts with each other. We're already engaged, yet we have so much to learn. I know the most important things about Bree, though. She is beautiful, clever, sexy as hell, and adventurous. Sabrina Remington is the perfect woman for me. How I got lucky enough to bump into her at the Savoy, I'll never know. But I'm deeply grateful to whatever power gifted me with this strawberry blonde angel.
"How long will our trip take?" Sabrina asks.
"Well, love, the flight itself will take about fourteen hours, give or take," I reply, checking our flight plan. "We're traveling faster than an airliner. So, even with our stops for fuel and rest, we're looking at about a day and a half of total travel time. We'll touch down in Tokyo first, then take a scenic train ride to Nikko."
Bree's eyebrows shoot up. "A day and a half? That's not as bad as I thought. I was picturing us island-hopping across the Pacific for weeks."
I flash her a cocky grin. "Don't worry. I've done longer hauls than this. Besides, I've got the best co-pilot in the world to keep me alert."
She raises an eyebrow. "Co-pilot? I thought I was just eye candy."
"Oh, you're that too," I tease, earning a playful swat on the arm. "But seriously, if you're interested, I could show you some of the basics. It might come in handy someday."
Bree's face lights up with excitement. "Really? I'd love that."
Our journey becomes an even more exciting adventure than our mutual chasing of each other. Over the next day and a half, we explore lesser known locales that even I haven't explored yet. Bree loves every minute of it, and I love it too---because she's with me.
When we finally touch down in Tokyo, I swear I can feel the bustling energy of the capital city buzzing around us. Bree's eyes are wide with wonder, taking in the neon lights and towering skyscrapers. We navigate the crowded streets, hand in hand, behaving like any tourists might. But we aren't mere tourists. We are international adventurers.
"Um, sweetie, I think I just ordered us something with tentacles," Bree giggles, pointing at a picture on the vending machine screen.
I peer over her shoulder, chuckling. "Actually, darling, that's...Well, I'm not entirely sure what it is. Shall we find out?"
Her radiant smile could light up the entire city. "Absolutely. When in Rome, right?"
I abruptly realize what she said a moment ago. "Did you just call me 'sweetie'?"
"Yep. Do you mind?"
I kiss her cheek. "Not at all. You can call me 'sweetie' anytime."
We spend the night in a capsule hotel, marveling at the tiny, pod-like rooms and high-tech amenities. Bree can barely contain her excitement as we squeeze into our adjacent capsules. It isn't my favorite way to sleep, but Sabrina insisted on having a pod experience.
"This is insane," she whispers loudly, poking her head out to look at me. "I feel like I'm in some futuristic spaceship."
I grin back at her. "Welcome to Tokyo, love. Just wait until you see what Nikko has in store for us."
The next morning, we board a train to Nikko, watching the urban sprawl of Tokyo give way to lush green mountains and tranquil forests. Bree's face is pressed against the window, drinking in every detail of the passing landscape.
As we step off the train in Nikko, the air feels different---cleaner, crisper. The bustling energy of Tokyo is replaced by a serene calm that seems to emanate from the very earth itself.
"Oh, Declan," Bree breathes, taking in the picturesque scenery. "It's absolutely gorgeous here."
I squeeze her hand, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. "Wait until you see the ryokan . It's just up this path."
We make our way along a winding stone path, surrounded by towering cedar trees and the gentle sound of a nearby stream. As we round a bend, the ryokan comes into view---a beautiful traditional wooden building with a sloping tiled roof.
"Declan-san!" a voice calls out. A middle-aged Japanese man in a simple yukata approaches us, beaming. "Welcome, welcome!"
"Ren!" I grin, clasping his hand warmly. "It's been too long, mate. This is Sabrina, my fiancée."
Bree's eyes widen slightly at the word "fiancée," but she quickly recovers, offering Ren a warm smile and a slight bow. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ren-san. Thank you for having us."
Ren's eyes twinkle as he returns the bow. "The pleasure is all mine, Sabrina-san. Any friend of Declan's is welcome here. Please, come inside and make yourselves comfortable."
As we follow Ren into the ryokan , I can feel Bree's excitement radiating off her. The interior is just as beautiful as I remember---all polished wood and soft tatami mats, with sliding paper doors separating the spaces.
"This is incredible," Bree whispers, her eyes darting around to take in every detail.
Ren shows us to our room, a spacious area overlooking a serene garden. As he slides open the shoji doors, Bree gasps in delight.
"It's even more beautiful than I imagined," she proclaims, stepping inside. The room is minimalist yet elegant, with a low table, cushions, and a small alcove adorned with a simple flower arrangement and a calligraphy scroll.
Ren smiles warmly. "I'm pleased you like it. The onsen is just down the path outside. Please, enjoy your stay. Dinner will be served in two hours."
After he leaves, Bree turns to me, her green eyes sparkling. "Declan, this is...I don't even have the words to describe it. Thank you for bringing me here."
I pull her close, reveling in the scent of her hair. "Anything for you, love. Now, what do you say we check out those hot springs?"
"Yes, please. I thought you'd never ask."
We change into the provided yukata, Bree giggling as she struggles with the unfamiliar garment. The simple robe accentuates her sensual body.
"How do I look?" she asks, giving a little twirl.
"Absolutely ravishing," I reply, pulling her in for a quick kiss. "Though I must say, I prefer you without any clothes at all."
She swats my arm playfully. "Behave yourself, Mr. Wilde. We're in a respectable establishment."
We make our way down the stone path to the onsen, the cool evening air nipping at our skin. The sound of bubbling water grows louder as we approach.
"Now, remember," I whisper to Bree, "we have to wash thoroughly before entering the bath. And no splashing or loud noises---it's meant to be a peaceful experience."
Bree nods solemnly, but there's a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. We part ways at the entrance, heading to the separate men's and women's changing areas.
A few minutes later, I'm easing myself into the steaming water, feeling the tension melt from my muscles. The outdoor bath is surrounded by smooth rocks and lush greenery, with a breathtaking view of the starry sky above.
I hear a small splash and turn to see Bree entering the water, her pale skin flushed from the heat. She lets out a contented sigh as she sinks deeper into the bath, her strawberry blonde hair piled messily atop her head.
"This is heavenly," she murmurs, her eyes closed in bliss. "I could stay here forever."
"Careful, darling. You might turn into a prune if you do."
She cracks one eye open, a smirk playing on her lips. "Would you still love me if I was all wrinkly?"
"Always," I reply, pulling her onto my lap. The water splashes gently around us as I trail kisses along her neck. "Though I must say, I prefer you soft and smooth."
We spend four days in Nikko, and Bree loves getting to know Ren and learning about Japanese traditions. But then it's time for us to move on. I can sense that Sabrina wants to head home, but I ask her to be sure.
"Yeah, I'm ready to go home. And by 'home' I mean your place in London."
"Would you like to meet my family?"
She boosts herself up on her tiptoes to kiss my cheek. "Of course I would. And you'll meet my family when they descend on England for the big wedding."
"Can't wait for that." I pull her close and kiss her forehead. "I was thinking we could take a more southerly route to go home. That would let you see more exotic places."
Bree grins. "That sounds perfect."
As we board the jet, she clasps my hand firmly. "So, where to next, Captain Wilde?"
Her enthusiasm captivates me. "Well, I thought we might make a pit stop in Bali. Beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and some of the best surfing in the world. What do you say?"
"Bali?" She squeals, bouncing on her toes. "I've always wanted to go there! But wait, can we really fit that in before Tabby's wedding?"
I chuckle, guiding her to her seat. "Trust me, love. We've got plenty of time. I promised to get you back for the wedding, didn't I?"
As we take off, leaving the serene beauty of Japan behind, I'm surprised by how different this flight feels compared to when we first set out. The excitement is still there, but there's a new sense of comfort and belonging between us.
"So, tell me about Bali," Bree says, settling into her seat. "What should I expect?"
I let my lips relax into a serene smile, picturing the paradise that awaits us. "Imagine pristine beaches with crystal clear water, lush green rice terraces, and ancient temples hidden in misty jungles. It's a place where you can lounge on the sand all day or dive into adventure at a moment's notice."
"It sounds amazing. But what about the surfing you mentioned? I've never tried it before."
"Ah, you're in for a treat then," I say, reaching over to tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Bali has some of the best waves for beginners. I know a quiet little beach where we can get you started. By the time we leave, you'll be riding waves like a pro."
Bree raises an eyebrow skeptically. "I don't know about that. I'm not exactly famous for my grace and balance."
"Nonsense," I chuckle. "You're graceful as a gazelle. Besides, half the fun is falling off the board and getting back up again."
She wags her eyebrows. "Well, if nothing else, at least you'll get to see me in a bikini."
"Now that's something I'm very much looking forward to."
The next day, we're on our way.