9. Emma
Emma
My eyes take a moment to adjust to the bright Caribbean sun as I step off the pier and onto the pristine white sand of Odyssey Oasis. Once they do, I audibly gasp at the sheer beauty surrounding me. The private island, exclusive to Celestial Odyssey passengers, is a tropical paradise straight out of a dream.
Paul walks beside me, his camera already out and snapping away at the crystal-clear turquoise waters and the lush palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze."This place is unreal,"he murmurs, his eyes wide with wonder.
I adjust my glasses, which are fogging up from the heat and humidity, and nod in agreement, taking in the picturesque scene before me. The sun's warm rays caress my skin, and the salty tang of the ocean fills my nostrils. It's a stark contrast to the bustling cruise ship we just left behind, a serene oasis that promises relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
As we make our way down the beach, I spot a group of passengers already lounging on the sand, sipping colorful cocktails from the nearby tiki bar. The sound of laughter and the gentle crash of waves against the shore create a soothing symphony that immediately puts me at ease.
An ease that immediately shatters, like a wave crashing against a seawall, when I spot him. The captain.
Leo is waiting right off the main path, a short way in front of us with a golf cart. He's wearing aviator sunglasses, but I can still feel his eyes on me. The hair on the back of my neck stands up and my chest tightens. I grip Paul's arm."Oh my gosh, Paul - it's Leo,"I say.
Paul lets out a low whistle beside me."Damn, Emma. That captain is smoking hot."
I wish I didn’t agree with him. Leo is wearing tropical print swim trunks with vibrant colors that show off the tan on his muscular legs. His button-down white linen shirt is completely open, revealing his chiseled chest and abs, with a sprinkling of the sexiest dark, manly hair on his chest. This guy exudes testosterone and makes me weak in the knees.
As we get closer, the Captain removes his aviator sunglasses, his piercing blue eyes locking with mine. There’s a smirk on his lips as he leans against the golf cart, his posture relaxed yet confident.
"Paul, SHUT. UP."
Guilt gnaws at my insides. I'm not here on vacation like Leo thinks. I'm here to expose him, to uncover the truth about him, and to find some sort of scathing story. I'm exactly the type of gossip leech he hates. And yet, with each encounter, I find myself falling deeper under his spell.
Last night Paul went to the Nova Nightclub, leaving me alone in my cabin, unable to escape my thoughts of my earlier encounter with Leo at the cenote. The tension in my body was unbearable, and I tossed and turned in my bed until I couldn't resist the urge any longer. My fingers found their way under the covers, sliding down between my legs. I closed my eyes and brought myself back to our heated kiss in the water. Leo's hands explored my body, his touch igniting a fire within me. I could almost taste him, his tongue probing and demanding in my mouth.
As my fingers moved faster, I imagined a different scenario entirely. Leo spun me around so that the entire back side of me was flush with his muscular chest and rippling abs. His pelvis was pressed against me and his rock-hard length between my cheeks. I desperately wondered what it would be like to feel him inside me - to finally lose my virginity. He ran his hand down from my aching, needy breasts, over my stomach, and under my swimsuit bottom until his fingers slid between my folds and found my pulsing nub. His other hand was buried in my mop of wet hair and he gently pulled, moving my head to the side and opening my neck to him. The idea of him kissing, biting, and sucking that sensitive flesh while his fingers had their way with my throbbing pussy brought me quickly to the edge and I came with a breathy cry, shuddering with release, wishing it had been real-life Leo making me feel so good.
This was exactly why I knew I needed to be careful. I was falling, and fast. The more time I spent with him, the harder it became to resist his charm. I didn't know if I could keep my emotions in check and not let them get in the way of my job.
"I'm not ready to see him. Not after yesterday."I confess.
"Girl,"Paul is quick to reply."You yapped my ear off about your 'morals' last night, and I already told you this is just show biz, baby. Now get over there and do your job. Any other reporter would kill to get this close to their subject. And you already told me you've found exactly zero leads with all your skulking and digging around the ship trying to get info out of the staff."
I try to object, but Paul has me by the elbow and walks me right over to Leo.
Leo flashes a charming smile, his eyes meeting mine."Emma…Paul, I was hoping to show you both around Odyssey Oasis. A private tour, only for you."He opens the cooler on the back of the cart and hands us each a bottle of ice-cold water. I accept it gratefully, the heat of the situation making me even more overheated than the weather.
Paul glances at his watch and then at me."Actually, I'm meeting Roberto at Temptation Beach. You should go ahead, though, Emma. But first a picture!"He holds up his camera and snaps a picture of Leo and me, making me scowl at him.
"Oh, that's right, you work with Emma at the marketing firm. Are you the in-house photographer?"
I had taken a long pull from the water bottle, trying to quell my nerves. But when Leo mentions the marketing firm, I start coughing and choking on the water. Leo turns quickly and starts thumping me on the back as I sputter, my eyes watering.
Paul gives him a strange look that thankfully goes unnoticed by Leo as he's more concerned with my current struggle to pull oxygen back into my lungs."Oh, yes, the umm, marketing firm... mhmmm. Well, I'm gonna head out. You two kids have fun."I let out a squeak in objection but Paul couldn't care less. He leaves me hunched over still hacking up a lung with one of Leo's arms wrapped around my front and the other smacking me on the back.
Finally, I recover and Leo asks,"Are you okay, now?"Then motions to the golf cart."Why don't you get in and sit down?"
My thoughts scramble, desperate to find a way out of this predicament. I anxiously look between Paul's departing figure and Leo's anticipatory look. Resigned, I inhale deeply and flash my most dazzling smile."Okay. Yes- absolutely, let's go."I say, climbing onto the golf cart with Leo settling in next to me.
Leo starts off down the path and I tug at my denim cut-offs, trying to pull them down as they ride up my thighs. I can sense Leo's attention on my skin, and heat rushes straight to my core. I'm wearing a one-piece swimsuit under my shorts and the low cut back leaves my skin sticking to the vinyl of the golf cart seat. The slightest attention from him has me hot all over.
I'm happy for the distraction of the winding paths of the island and lush foliage. Leo points out various attractions, his deep voice filling the space between us."Over there is Temptation Beach, the adult-only area with a swim-up bar and DJ platform. Perfect for those looking to let loose and have some fun."
"Yup, that sounds like Paul's vibe,"I say over the thumping bass.
I'm trying my hardest to focus on his words and not the way his muscular thigh brushes against mine with every bump in the path. The hairs on his skin tickle mine and goosebumps rise up and down my leg.
We pass by a secluded bay with crystal-clear waters and a small beach bar."This is Calypso Cove,"Leo says."Great snorkeling and kayak rentals, too."
Next, we come across Penelope's Place. Leo pulls into a clearing and parks next to a sign that says 'Scenic Sunset Overlook'.
"I bet this is a popular spot for couples,"I muse, my cheeks flushing as I realize the implications of my words.
Leo chuckles."It certainly is. The sun sets on this side of the island and the views in the evening are spectacular. The cruise line is adding more event venues to the island and this spot will be an option for wedding ceremonies."
"That would be so dreamy,"I reply, my voice wistful as I imagine a beautiful wedding archway right here, framing the breathtaking hues of the sunset over the shimmering water. The soft oranges, pinks, and purples painting the sky would create an amazing backdrop for a couple exchanging their vows, promising to love and cherish each other for eternity.
Lost in my romantic reverie, I don't notice Leo's intense gaze fixed on me until I turn and our eyes meet. It's not the first time I've caught him staring. He never looks embarrassed or flustered. Never turns away. He drinks in the sight of me like I'm cool water on a hot day and he can't get his fill. I'm not used to that level of attention from men and I'm not sure how to feel about it.
"So, um, where to next?"I ask, adjusting my glasses. I'm desperate to change the subject and regain my composure.
Leo starts the golf cart back up and we continue our drive. He veers right to take a smaller path that is marked with a 'Staff Only' sign. It winds through dense tropical foliage and the leaves brush up against the sides of the cart. The scent of exotic flowers fills the air, and I inhale deeply, savoring the sweet aroma.
"Over there is Lotus Grove,"he says, gesturing towards a palm grove with hammocks swaying in the breeze."Great for a picnic or just to relax and unwind."
Back on the main path, Leo points out Hestia's Hearth, a culinary center offering classes on local cuisine."If you're interested in learning about the flavors of the Caribbean, this is the place to be,"he says with a smile."The chefs here are incredibly talented and passionate about sharing their knowledge."
I nod, intrigued by the idea of immersing myself in the local culture through food."That sounds amazing. At home, I survive mostly on frozen dinners and takeout but I've always wanted to learn to cook."
We pass by Poseidon's Playground, a water park with thrilling slides and attractions. The excited screams of children and adults alike draw my attention, and I grin when I see a dad in the pool toss his little girl high into the air and she erupts into a fit of giggles.
"Families having fun together is one of my favorite parts of the cruising culture,"Leo says.
I turn to look at Leo, surprised by his comment."Really? I wouldn't have pegged you as the family type."
Leo chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners."There's a lot you don't know about me, Emma."
"Well, you should enlighten me then,"I say. My voice has taken on a flirtatious tone that surprises me.
"I'd love for us to get to know each other better."Leo's tone is serious and my stomach lurches knowing I can't let him get to know the real me.
"What's that?"I ask, pointing towards a zipline course that weaves through the lush canopy of the island's tropical forest.
"Path of Pegasus,"he replies."It's an incredible way to see the island from a different perspective."
I watch as people soar over our heads through the air, their laughter and shrieks of excitement echoing through the trees.
"That looks amazing,"I breathe, my eyes wide with wonder."Have you ever done it?"
Leo nods,"Last week actually. Normally I don't have time to enjoy the amenities on the ship or island but Ivan wanted footage of me for the Instagram promos. Silver lining to all the forced photo ops, I guess."
I think I believe his sincerity. It seems he genuinely dislikes and never sought out the limelight that's been thrust upon him. During my internet deep dive last night to uncover details about his prior positions, I was only able to dig up a smattering of photos depicting him before the Celestial Odyssey. His social media presence in the past was minimal at best, and I'd guess they've tasked a staff member with managing it these days. Now there is a constant barrage of photos and videos that flood his accounts, featuring him posing with models and celebrities, attending glamorous events, and living the high life.
But as I watch him today, his eyes lighting up as he talks about the island's natural beauty and the joy of sharing it with others, it occurs to me that this might be the real Leo, the one hidden behind the carefully crafted image.
A pang of guilt lands in my stomach like a brick. I'm here under false pretenses, pretending to be someone I'm not in order to expose him. But the more I get to know him, the harder it becomes to justify my actions. He's not the rake I thought he was, and I'm starting to wonder if I'm the one in the wrong here.
What am I doing?
Leo slows the golf cart as we draw near to a secluded cove, the water shimmering like diamonds in the sunlight."Now this, THIS is my favorite spot on the island,"he confides."It's so peaceful here, away from the crowds."
I nod, unable to find my voice. The beauty of the view is at war with the ugliness I feel inside about myself.
"This section of the island is exclusive to our suite guests and VIPs,"he explains."But today, Rachel has them all attending a special luncheon at Horizon Hall, so I knew Serenity Bay would be empty."
As we pull up closer to the beach, I suck in a sharp breath at the sight before me. There's a beautiful palapa on the beach, with two massage tables set up underneath. Masseuses, a man and a woman, wait patiently for us to approach.
"I thought we could enjoy some relaxing ocean-view massages,"Leo says, his voice soft and intimate."Just the two of us."
My heart skips a beat at his words, and a thrill of excitement courses through me at the prospect of sharing such an intimate experience with him.
There's a small table set up under the palapa. A variety of fruits, cheeses, and snacks are laid out along with a chilled bottle of champagne.
"Leo, this is incredible,"I breathe, taking in the stunning surroundings and the thoughtful gesture."You didn't have to go to all this trouble."
He smiles, his eyes locked on mine."Well, I didn't know if I'd be able to get you to come with me today after you ran off yesterday. But I thought I'd take a shot."
I ponder Leo's thoughtful gesture and a nagging thought creeps into my mind. I try to push it away, but it slips out before I can stop it.
"Oh really?"I ask, my voice wavering slightly."And if I had said no, you would have brought Sophia or one of the models? Any woman that was available to go on a tour with you?"
As soon as the words leave my mouth, I instantly regret them. I'm half-joking, half-serious, not quite sure if I fully believe that Leo is genuinely interested in me and that what he says is true - that he's not just a playboy.
Leo's stare intensifies, his blue eyes boring into mine with a seriousness that takes my breath away. The muscles in his jaw tighten and twitch as he steps closer, his presence overwhelming in the best possible way.
"Emma,"he says earnestly."As far as I'm concerned, there are no other women. Not on this island, not on the ship, not on this entire ocean. Only you."
The words tumble over and over and rattle in my mind as I fall against my will into the depths of Leo's piercing blue eyes. My heart races and a coil in my stomach tightens at the intensity of his words. Could he really mean it?
Only…me?
"Mmmmhmmm…."I manage a mumble as the masseuse finishes packing her things and tells me to have a good day. The massage was life-changing and every fiber of my being is simultaneously lit up and relaxed. I wonder if this is what the afterglow of sex is like.
"The water looks amazing,"Leo says. He's turned on his side and has his head propped up on his hand while he looks out over the empty beach and ocean. The massage sheet is still draped over him but clinging in ways that don't leave much to the imagination.
"Want to go for a swim?"he asks.
I turn my head to look at him, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. I don't know if it's the champagne or the oxytocin from the massage, but I'm feeling quite unlike myself- brave."I dare you to skinny dip with me."
Leo's eyes widen in surprise, but then a matching grin appears on his face."Ready, set, go!"
We race to the water's edge, shedding our sheets as we go. I touch of nervousness tingles through me as I bare myself to him, but the way he looks at me; the appreciation and desire, makes me bold and beautiful.
We plunge into the cool, clear water, laughing and splashing each other like carefree children. The saltwater is amazing on my skin, and I can't remember the last time I’ve been this alive and free.
Leo swims over close to me. Our bodies brush against each other, skin on skin, and a jolt of desire runs through me.
"I haven't skinny-dipped since I was a kid—ya know, a million years ago,"Leo says with a grin.
Emma splashes him playfully."Oh stop, you're not that much older than me."
"Ten years, little one,"he teases back.
"That's nothing really,"I retort."My parents are twelve years apart! My dad is younger actually. They met at a work event and he was completely enamored with her. She kept shutting him down, saying she was too old for him, but he insisted that age was just a number. She finally agreed to go on a date with him and, well, the rest is history."
There's a glimmer in Leo's eyes as I share my parents' story. It's as if my words were a balm to a worrisome sore, a soothing reassurance that the age gap between us is not an insurmountable obstacle. I hadn't even considered that Leo might be worried about our age difference. Enticing and bedding a younger woman is kind of part of the job when you are a smooth-operating ladies' man... charmer... Don Juan... a Cruise Casanova- ha! If I use that name in my article I guarantee Ivan will jump at the chance to incorporate it into his next marketing blitz.
Leo is so much more than what he's being made out to be. If only Ivan knew that a real, genuine, sensitive, and stoic man was just as or more attractive to the masses as the hunky hotshot persona he's forced Leo into.
Leo's gaze lingers on me, and I watch his eyes dart to my lips and back. His strong hands find my waist, pulling me flush against his muscular chest. The heat of his skin and the racing of his heartbeat spur me on. My pulse quickens in response, a delicious anticipation building within me.
"Emma,"he whispers."I've never met anyone that makes me feel the way you do."
"I feel the same way about you, Leo."I look up at him, my pulse pounding in my ears."I don't normally do things like this."
He leans down and captures my lips in a passionate kiss, his tongue sliding along mine as he pulls me even closer. I melt into him, my hands running over his sinewy back as I lose myself in the moment.
When we finally come up for air, Leo rests his forehead against mine, his eyes shining with emotion."Have dinner with me tonight,"he says, his voice husky with desire."Chef's table. It'll be only you and me."
My heart leaps at the prospect, and all my worries about my job and the article evaporate into thin air. I nod eagerly.
Absolutely, yes.