Chapter 17
Chapter Seventeen
Raelyn
Everyone has managed to sober up by the time we land.
The ocean breeze whips my hair around my face as I step out onto the set of stairs unfolding from the plane. Taking a deep breath, I inhale the island’s scent. The water is the prettiest shade of blue I’ve ever seen, and the white sand looks like soft powder. Big, lush palm trees with colorful, exotic flowers are everywhere. This is paradise.
“Wow,” Rylie says, coming up beside me.
“It’s beautiful,” Maddie says in awe.
“Remind me to get Holt a Christmas present,” Brynn adds.
I start to respond when I feel Holt’s arms wrap around me.
“I’ll start thinking about what I want,” he says, playfully.
I melt in his arms. “It’s breathtaking. I can’t believe we’re in Hawaii,” I squeal.
“Wait until you see the house,” Luke adds, coming to join us.
“Well, let’s not stand around then,” Brynn says.
We make our way to the two SUVs waiting on the landing strip, and climb in.
“The house is just a short distance from here,” Holt says.
Holding my hand out the window, I feel the wind rushing through my fingers as we travel the winding roads of the island. I’ve seen plenty of pictures of Hawaii, but the photos don’t do the island justice compared to seeing it in person.
The SUVs pulls up to a big, elegant, black iron gate.
“Kane has already had the house checked, and security’s in place,” Holt says as Kane scans a card at the entrance.
My mouth drops as the gate swings open revealing a gorgeous beach house.
I feel Holt’s eyes on me. “You like it?”
“Like doesn’t sound sufficient enough. I freaking love it. It’s perfect,” I say as we exit the SUV.
“She’s pretty special. She was my first purchase after I signed with the label.”
My eyes drift back to the beach house. Actually, calling it a beach house doesn’t even begin to cover it. It has a very modern beachy vibe with a clean white exterior and a burnt orange clay roof. The windows cover the entire wall.
Upon entering, I gaze at the open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Everything is soft white with touches of light blue, the modern styled interior matches the exterior.
“This kitchen looks fit for a chef. Look at this island. It’s got to be at least twelve feet long,” Brynn marvels.
“That’s nothing,” Rylie adds. “The entire back wall is nothing but glass windows. Look at this freaking view.”
“I agree. This is the best part,” Kyle says, opening a set of massive sliding glass doors, showcasing the sparking water..
“This view is absolutely breathtaking. This truly is paradise,” I gush, walking through the doors into the warm sunlight.
“This pool is to die for. I feel like I’m at a resort. It’s even got a hot tub connected to it overlooking the ocean,” Maddie says, in awe.
I look up to find Holt watching me. “You might ruin me with this trip.”
“We can come back as often as you like,” he says.
“Oh, hot damn. We have a fully stocked bar, too. Holt you’re the freaking man,” Brynn yells.
“Let’s throw on our swimsuits and make some margaritas,” I say, bouncing on the spot.
“Everyone has a room,” Holt tells the others. “Now, come with me and I’ll show you ours,” he says, with a deep drawl.
The primary bedroom is like something out of a resort, as well. It’s on the back side of the house facing the beach. The king size bed is gorgeous with a big, four poster wooden frame, and a jacuzzi spa tub sits in a nook overlooking the ocean.
I lay across the bed. “Yeah, I may never want to leave."
He climbs on top of me wearing a dark smile. “I can make that happen.”
I push him off me, grinning. “We can christen this bed later. I want to see the beach.”
“This is the freaking life,” Rylie sighs, sunning in her bikini while taking a sip of her margarita.
“Tell me about it.” I slip my shades on.
I watch Holt throw a perfectly spiraled football to Luke in the water as a smirk plays across my lips. Figures he’d be athletic, too. Is there anything he isn’t good at?
Kyle jogs out of the ocean, making his way over to us.
“Oh, so tell us about the gala, Raelyn,” Maddie says.
“You were gorgeous, and that dress was off the charts,” Rylie says.
“I walked up at the perfect time.” Kyle grins, opening a beer. “Yeah, tell them about the gala.”
“Sounds like we’re missing something? What happened?” Brynn asks.
“Oh, you’re absolutely missing something.” He smirks.
I roll my eyes. “I might have tossed my drink in someone’s face.”
“Shut the freak up,” Rylie exclaims.
“Tell us more,” Brynn adds.
“So y’all remember the model Holt was pictured with a while back on instagram?” I ask.
The girls all nod, following along.
“Well, she was there and tried to get Holt’s attention. He blew her off so obviously, I became enemy number one. I just so happened to be in the bathroom when she came in talking shit about me with her friend.”
“Oh my god,” Maddie says.
“She said he’d come back to her because he required more than I could offer,” I say, sarcastically.
“That bitch!” Brynn grimaces.
“Right? She got under my skin and before I knew it, I reacted. I should’ve been the bigger person, but I wasn’t.”
Laughter bursts out of them.
“The best part was when she walked up to us to tell Holt how bad of a person Raelyn was as she was wiping champagne from her face. Best damn gala to date,” Kyle chuckles, then takes another swig of beer.
“That’s when I realized my girl has some claws,” Holt says behind me. “Highlight of the night.”
I hadn’t realized he had come up. “I promise to be on my best behavior next time,” I say.
“I like you misbehaving.” He smirks.
“Oh God, get a room,” Brynn says.
The water is warm against my skin, as white bubbles cover the surface of the spa tub. The only light is the flickering of candles around us giving off a romantic glow.
I drink in the man in front of me as I take a sip of my white wine.
Today’s been a good day for the soul. Paradise with a bunch of people I love.
We ended the afternoon around a beach bonfire while eating some local take out.
“You know why this was my first career purchase?” Holt asks, breaking the silence.
“You love the beach?” I guess.
He laughs that deep laugh I love so much.
“I do love the beach, but Hawaii is a special place to me. When I was younger, we went on a family vacation here. It was one of my mom’s bucket list places, and Dad made it happen. He might have bitched and complained about it before we left, but I know it was secretly his favorite family vacation, too. Mom packed in the excursions and activities. We hiked, snorkeled, deep sea fished—you name it. She often reminisces about that trip and the memories we made when my dad was still here with us. When I had enough money, I knew I wanted a place in Hawaii for my mom. She scolded me for spending that much money, but you should’ve seen her face light up when she first laid eyes on this place. It was worth every penny.”
“That’s beautiful, Holt. I love this place even more now, knowing the special meaning behind it. Thank you for telling me,” I say, as my heart swells for this man. “I have always been intrigued by your tattoos. Do they each have a story? Is the date and clock for your dad?” I ask, running my fingers across them.
“Yes, the clock represents the time we shared with him on earth, and the date on my bicep is the day we lost him.”
“Can I ask what happened?”
“A drunk driver hit him on the way home from work one afternoon.” He pauses for a minute, seeming to be lost in a memory. “I can still remember the call I received from my mom like it was yesterday. She was so broken. My father was her world, our world. They cherished each other. Their love was one of a kind. Not a day goes by where I don’t miss him—he was my role model.”
My heart hurts for Holt. “Your father is the one who bought you your first guitar, right?”
He nods his head. “He did. Music became my escape during that time. I almost threw it all away, but my mom wouldn’t stand for it. She pushed me to chase my dream. She believed in me, and so did he. She’s my biggest fan and worst critic,” he finishes with a smile, even though I can sense the hidden emotion.
“I’m sorry,” I say. I wish I could take the hurt away.
We spend the next thirty minutes talking about life. The heaviness of the conversation is gone along with most of the bubbles.
“Enough talk, how about we go christen that bed now,” he says, with his sexy deep drawl.
I push through the bubbles and straddle his waist wrapping my arms around his neck.
I give him a wicked grin. “How about we start here instead.”
It’s a beautiful sunny day with no clouds in sight. The ocean is calm as the waves gently roll in. I smile, watching the guys paddle through the ocean water on surfboards, waiting for the next wave to attempt to ride.
We slept in late, and now we’re all relaxing on the beach getting a dose of vitamin D. The pink tint of my skin is a reminder I need to apply more sunscreen.
“Oh my,” Rylie says, catching my attention as I’m applying a new layer of lotion.
“What is it?” I ask, looking up.
“There’s been a fourth murder in Louisiana.” She frowns, still reading on her phone.
“Another stripper?” Maddie asks.
“Yeah, same M.O. too. Gunshot to the head,” Rylie replies.
“That’s insane. Still no leads?” I question.
“None,” she says. “The killer must be smart to never leave any traces behind.”
“Exactly what I was thinking,” I mutter.
“How many people have to be killed before they label it a serial killer?” Brynn asks.
I shiver. “I don’t know, but they’re on their way. Ugh, that gives me chills just thinking about it.”
“Right? I’m sorry, I killed our good vibe but I just wanted to give an update. Y’all want to try out that bar tonight?” Rylie asks.
“Oh yes! I remember Holt talking about it when we landed,” Maddie says.
“Wonder if there’re any hot locals?” Brynn smirks.
At that moment, we hear hoots of laughter from the guys still in the ocean water.
“Son of a bitch,” Kyle yells out. He paddles to the shore, while the others laugh uncontrollably.
“Wonder what that’s about,” Maddie says, as we watch them make their way to us through the sand.
“What’s so funny?” I ask.
“A jellyfish stung his junk,” Jake says.
The guys are still in a fit of laughter, while Kyle looks like he’s in distress.
“It’s not fucking funny. Damn thing got caught in my swim trunks. My main man is injured,” Kyle says, glaring at the guys.
Laughter bursts out of everyone again.
“You know what they say helps with the stinging,” Rylie says, smirking.
“What,” he asks, looking desperate.
“If someone pees on it, it supposedly takes the sting away,” she replies.
“Oh, hell no.” Kyle frowns, as everyone laughs even harder.
“She’s a nurse,” I say.
“And her advice is for someone to piss on my dick?” Kyle questions.
“I’ll take one for the team,” Jake says, still laughing.
“Like I would let you piss on my most prized possession. Some friends y’all are. I’m going to get some ice,” he says, as he stalks off to the house.
“It really does help. I can tell you from experience,” Brynn yells out after him.
Kyle keeps waking while flipping us all the bird.
“Does that really help?” Holt asks.
Rylie shakes her head. “It actually does the opposite, but I just wanted to mess with him. I would’ve never let y’all go through with it. I’ll go check on him, and make sure he doesn’t need further medical attention.”
I wipe the tears from my eyes, as the laughter continues.
Poor Kyle.
The sand is cool on my feet, as we walk towards the restaurant. The glow of the sunset filling the afternoon sky is absolutely stunning.
The atmosphere resembles our yacht club vibe from home. You can sit inside, or at beautiful handcrafted wooden tables outside in the sand.
Holt drapes his arm over my shoulders.“There was live entertainment outside last time we were here.”
I slide my arm around his waist. “Let’s sit outside, then.”
Rylie nods beside me. “Agreed.”
We find a long table that will accommodate all of us, and take a seat.
I pick up a menu and begin to browse.
Holt leans in. “The oysters and tuna are excellent choices.”
“Oh, good. I’m a big fan of both, and I’m starving too. I was saving my appetite for this meal.” I rub my hands together.
“I have something else you can eat,” Holt whispers with a dark grin.
Brynn groans. “Dear sweet baby Jesus, make it stop.”
Laughter bubbles out of me, while Holt shakes his head.
“I need to find some local talent if I’m going to have to sit by these two horn dogs,” she states.
“Need me to satisfy that itch?” Kyle asks. “Ladies never leave my bed disappointed.”
Brynn rolls her eyes. “Keep that jellyfish dick of yours in your pants.”
“Fine, your loss,” Kyle says with a shrug, as the table bursts into a fit of laughter.
Holt’s phone starts ringing.
He flashes the screen to the table. “I need to get this call. It’s Paul. I’ll be right back.”
I turn my eyes on Kane as Holt walks away.
“I’m glad you came out with us tonight, Kane,” I say, smiling.
He nods. “Me too. I enjoy a little play with work.”
“So, you have a military background, right?” Rylie asks.
“Yeah, I did a few tours,” Kane replies.
“Like secret mission shit?” Brynn asks.
He grins. “Secret mission shit was my specialty.”
“Hot damn. I love a badass,” Brynn says, mischievously.
I smile, as I look up to see Holt making his way back to us.
“Any updates,” I ask as he takes a seat.
Holt shakes his head. “None about the break in. We were set to record a music video this week, and with everything going on, it completely slipped everyone’s mind. They can move it to Thursday, but if we don’t record it then, it’ll be pushed back. The label wants it now, with how the song is trending. Security’s still going to be amped up, but they’re thinking there’s no longer a threat of danger anymore.”
I sigh. “Good. That’s a relief.”
“This is the video for ‘Beer Talks’ right?” Luke asks.
“Yeah, it is. Sorry guys, it looks like we’re going to have to return a few days earlier than expected, but you girls are more than welcome to stay at my house, in Nashville, for the remainder of the week with Raelyn. It’ll probably take the majority of the day for us to record it, so y’all can make a girls’ day out of it.”
“That sounds good to me,” I say as the girls nod in agreement.
The rest of the night is spent eating good food and making core memories.
We make the guys get on stage for a hula dance competition. Jake wins, and Kyle bitches that it was rigged for the remainder of the night.
Kane refused to participate, but I did see him relax some tonight.
These are my people.
Holt
It’s our last night in Hawaii, and I want to make it a memorable one. As we all walk back into the beach house, I take Raelyn’s hand. “Can I steal you for a moonlight walk?”
A soft smile forms on her face. “I would love that.”
Grabbing a basket, I place a few items inside, and then lead the way out back into the darkness. The beach is illuminated by the glow of the full moon tonight.
I lay a blanket out on the cool sand.
“I never picked you as the romantic type.” Raelyn smirks, as she takes a seat.
A smile tugs at my lips. “Never thought I was either. I thought my soul was tainted, but you changed that.” I pour a glass of wine and hand it to her.
Taking a seat beside her, I pull her close, inhaling her sweet scent.
I lace my fingers with hers. “You changed me."
She takes a sip of her wine and watches me intently.
“You blew me away. I never expected a sexy brunette with the most beautiful blue eyes would walk into my life and turn it upside down.”
“I'm kinda glad I crashed some hot, up and coming artist’s party, even if you did spill my drink on me.”
He chuckles. “I would say I’m sorry about that, but I’m not. That was the moment you entered my life. I didn’t know what I was missing out on until I didn’t have you. You make me want everything I’ve always been afraid of. I don’t see my future without you by my side, and I don’t want to imagine a life without you. I want you to meet my family. I already know my mom’s going to adore you. My dad would’ve loved you, too. I want it all with you. You’re beautiful inside and out. Raelyn, I don’t want to scare you, but I’ve fallen for you. I love you, Raelyn Grace.”
Tears form in her eyes, and I start to panic. “I'm sorry baby, is that too much? I know we haven’t been together long.”
“No Holt, it’s not that. It’s perfect. You just said everything I’ve been feeling. Our time together has been eye opening. What we have has never held a candle to what I thought love was. I know it’s a short amount of time, but it feels like much longer. I can’t imagine a life without my music man. You’ve had a hold on me since I first laid eyes on you, Holt Hayes. I love you, too. I think I have for a while now.”
My heart starts pounding in my chest. “You love me?” I ask as a smile spreads across my face.
“Yes, Holt, I do. But that scares me because you have the ability to crush my heart.”
Pulling her close to me, I kiss her head. “Baby, I promise to cherish you, and make you the happiest woman alive. I want to be your home. Your safe place. I love you, Raelyn.”
My heart’s in overdrive. I feel like the luckiest man alive.