29. DELE
Chapter 29
DELE
I wake up the next morning wrapped in Luke’s arms. I like waking up this way; I feel protected and safe. I get up, pick up the scattered clothes from the floor, put mine on, and then open the balcony door to enjoy the breeze. This is what you’d call a beautiful day in paradise, and if I had my way, I would stay here forever. Too bad you don’t have your way.
I feel arms wrap around my waist. He nuzzles my neck, and my hand reaches up to touch his face.
“Good morning,” I say.
“I would have liked to hear that in bed. I don’t like waking up to find you gone.”
“I was five steps away, and you looked peaceful. I didn’t want to disturb your sleep.”
“Next time, kiss me before you leave the bed.”
“That will wake you up, Luke.”
“Exactly my point, and I get to see you when I open my eyes, not an empty bed.”
“Okay.”
“What do you want to do today?”
“A walk on the beach sounds appealing, unless you have something planned.”
“A walk on the beach it is.” He kisses my lips before heading back inside.
We change, order breakfast, and head out for our walk. As we walk, Luke starts to ask questions about New York, and I answer every single one. If I thought Osei should have gone into law enforcement, Luke should have had a master’s degree in interrogation. He does it gently, but he asks a lot of detailed questions. I know he’s going to take care of my problems—he doesn’t have to say it out loud.
I need ice cream to replenish the sour taste from our discussion.
After my ice cream, we enjoyed the town: lunch, fun and laughter, more shopping. By evening, when we returned to our room, we packed our bags. Luke informs me we’re flying back to Chicago on a private plane.
“I’ve never been on a private plane before.” It sounds exciting, but I’m scared—it’s a smaller plane.
“It’s just us, and you’ll be fine.”
“Will I be, okay? You know takeoff and landing affect me. I need to buy more Dramamine. I can’t find the pack I bought at the airport.”
“We’ll pick one up on the way, and I’ll be right next to you.”
“Promise?”
“Yes, I promise to always be by your side and have your back.” I smile and kiss him, though a pang of hurt hits as the reminder of his promise stings—it’s temporary, while we are here, or at most until our contract ends.