Page 133 of My Real Love Affair

“And you love it.”

I did. God help me, I really did.

We made our way up to the main deck, where breakfast was laid out on the outdoor dining table. The crew had set everything up beautifully—fresh fruit, pastries, eggs and coffee that smelled like heaven.

A woman in a crisp white polo approached with a smile. “Good morning, Ms. Stephens. I’m Claire, your chief steward. Can I get you anything? Coffee? Juice?”

“Coffee would be amazing. Thank you.”

“Of course. And just so you know, if you need anything at all during your stay—anything—just ask. We’re here to make your vacation perfect.”

Over breakfast, we met more of the crew. The boatswain, Marco, stopped by to explain the water activities available. The first mate checked in about our plans for the day. Everyone was friendly, professional, clearly passionate about making our experience memorable.

I knew it was probably normal for Austin. He was raised with staff in the house. I, however, was not. I didn’t know how to deal with people waiting on me hand and foot. It made me feel very self-conscious.

“This is nuts,” I said to Austin between bites of the flakiest croissant I’d ever tasted. “All these people, just taking care of us.”

“That’s what they’re here for.”

“I know, but I’m not used to it.”

“You’ll get used to it.” He squeezed my hand. “This week, you’re going to be pampered and spoiled and treated like royalty. And you’re going to enjoy every second.”

“Is that an order?”

“Consider it a strong suggestion.”

After breakfast, we went back to the stateroom to change into swimwear. I put on my favorite one-piece. It was a vibrant blue that I’d spent way too long picking out. I added a gauzy cover-up and a sunhat as well.

When I emerged from the bathroom, Austin was already in his swim trunks, and I had to take a moment to appreciate the view. All those muscles. That tan. Damn. He was the definition of eye candy.

“Ready?” he asked.

And willing.“Yep.”

We headed to the swim platform where the tender boat was waiting. Marco helped us aboard, and then we were skimming across the crystal-clear water toward the beach.

The sun was warm on my skin. The wind whipped my hair. Austin’s hand was firm on my thigh. This was what happiness felt like. Not the yacht or the luxury or the exotic location.

Just this. Being with someone who chose me. A man that made me feel like the most important person in his world.

The tender boat pulled up to the beach, and Austin jumped out first, then helped me down onto the sand.

And we were in paradise.

CHAPTER 41

AUSTIN

The beach was everything I had promised and more. I had been to Tahiti but never to this place. When I called to get the yacht, I asked the service to recommend some places. Usually, when I traveled, I liked to stick to the hot spots. I wanted the beaches blanked with scantily clad women looking for a good time. I wanted the clubs and the liquor and the fine dining.

Finding privacy away from all of that was new for me. And I liked it. I helped Melody out of the boat. She was carrying a large tote with God knew what crammed in it. I wasn’t sure if she thought we were going to have to survive on the island or what, but she was ready.

“I don’t think I will ever get used to seeing such beauty,” Melody murmured. “I mean, honestly, I could live here forever and never get tired of the view.”

“I have a cousin that lives in Bali,” I said. “Right on the beach. I visited once a couple of years ago. Trust me, it’s hard to leave.”

“I bet,” she said. “I would give up my lattes and matcha to have this view every morning.”