“I don’t get it.” She looks away, watching her feet glide back and forth through the crystal clear water.
“Get what?” I play along.
“What is so special about her,Romeo?”
I arch a brow at her, even though she cannot see me.
A noise makes us both look to the left, and we see staff starting their late-night decorating for Valentine’s Day, which is also the day of the wedding.
Hearts and flowers are hung and placed everywhere, and it makes me think of Nell. She is the hearts and flowers kind of woman.
I will have to get her the perfect gift for our first Valentine’s.
“Romeo?” Her fingers touch under my chin to pull my gaze to hers.
Before I can answer, a crashing sound comes from above us, and we both look up, leaning our bodies back. Nothing stands out, and my gaze locks on the balcony that is attached to my room, but I do not see anything, or anyone. No lights on, so Nell must still be sleeping.
Shaking my head, I look back to Daniella.
“Nell is kind, sweet, and makes me feel things that no one ever has.” She lets out a soft gasp. “I am sorry if that hurts you, but it is the truth. Meeting Nell was unexpected but I am glad that I ran into her that day. Things just feel different with her; she makes me fucking smile and forget about the clubs, Dani.”
A soft look crosses her face when I use the name I used to call her.
“She really makes you forget?” I nod, smiling.
“She does.”
We sit in silence for a short time, watching the staff decorate. I think she is reflecting on what I have just told her, and maybe it is sinking in that we do not have a future.
She lets out a big sigh. “Then I can only wish you both well, Romeo. I am sorry that I was a bitch to her; will you tell her that I am sorry?”
“Maybe you could tell her yourself. Plus, you should thank her, because I wanted to kick you off the island for hurting her, but Nell made me call my uncle to stop you from being sent home, as you are Mia’s best friend.” Her eyes flash wide at my admission.
“Fuck. I was a huge bitch to her. I will find her tomorrow before the wedding, if I can. If not, I will chat with her at some point.”
“Good.” I give her a pointed look. Then she climbs to her feet, water splashing over my thighs.
“I am going to try and get some sleep. Good luck, Romeo. Night.”
“Goodnight.” She walks away.
I sit for a little while longer, working through my feelings for Nell. The sound of the staff talking and laughing makes me think of my staff back home.
They are a crazy bunch, but I think they would love Nell. She would fit right in with them. They may work for me, but I doconsider them work-family, and I will help them out whenever I can.
Slipping into the water, I complete my laps, letting the water soothe my body, dragging away any tension that is left behind. I lose myself in the swimming, until I climb out and head up to my room. I find Nell still sleeping but now she is practically hugging the edge of the bed.
Brushing away a strand of hair off her cheek, I smile down at her before heading into the bathroom to shower, then climb into bed. Sleep takes me quickly, as I spoon behind my girl, feeling happy and settled.
Chapter Twenty-Three
Nell
My eyes blink open, and my stomach rolls at the same time.
I stare up at the ceiling, thankful that it is not in motion.
Slowly turning my head to the other side of the bed, I see that it is empty— no Romeo again. I look past the bed, and see that it is still dark outside.
