He squeezed back, leaning closer. “You really are something else, Ivy Lawrence.”
In the frosty morning air, cocooned by the endless blue sky, we sat on the deck while he kissed me, the catamaran flying over the waves beneath us.
It was like everything that had happened before existed just so we could be together.
Days turned to nights and back again, but we barely noticed. I’d stretch out under the sun, reading books I’d found on board. Karson taught me about wind directions, tides, currents, and how to stay on course, then I took the helm.
At night, the silver glow of the moon and bright stars shone down through the open hatch. I lay in his arms as we were lulled to sleep by the rocking of the waves.
Is this what it’s like to be in love?
***
Before we’d arrived in Sydney, Karson suggested that he move to Brisbane to complete his degree, so we could be closer to each other.
I loved the idea, but I didn’t want all the sacrifices for us to be together to fall on him. I told him I might be able to make it work in Sydney… after my contract was done.
Knowing I was going to be one of the featured models in the Adore Designs campaign had lifted an enormous weight from my shoulders. It’d be incredible exposure for me—and would take care of most of my money problems.
The thought of being together was intoxicating, no matter where we lived. The stars had aligned. My heart was so full I thought it might burst.
Without warning, this absolute prince had walked into my life on what hadalreadybeen the best day of my life. He wasn’t like anyone I’d ever known. I could talk to him about anything—really be myself.
It was just easy with him. And fun. He made me feel so cherished… and loved.
The rest of the flight passed in a blur until a loud announcement from the pilot yanked me from my daydream.
“Hello, everybody. Thank you for flying with Qantas today,” he said. “We’re going to be landing shortly, ahead of schedule, on the sunny Gold Coast. Please fasten your seat belts for thedescent. It’s a beautiful day out there, enjoy your stay if you’re visiting, and if you’re returning… welcome home. We hope you fly with us again soon.”
I couldn’t wait to fill the girls in when I got home. Before we’d set sail, I’d texted them to let them know I’d be on the boat with Karson for a week or two. I’d had plenty of cheeky texts from Sass and Olivia, they’d be dying to hear the details.
As I leaned back against my seat, I smiled happily.
There’s literally nothing I’d change right now.
***
GOLD COAST
IVY
As I climbed down the steep stairs and crossed the tarmac, a warm breeze caressed my face, the familiar scent of jasmine drifting through the air.
I walked into the terminal toward the restroom. As I switched my phone back on, it pinged a few times.
I said a silent prayer that everything had gone okay with Karson’s father. He’d been nervous. As soon as we left the boat, it was like we’d entered another universe.
One controlled by his father…
The whole thing had been so weird. It was clear he’d prefer to live in Brisbane, away from his father.
Butterflies filled my chest as Karson’s name flashed at the top of my notifications. Even though it’d only been a couple of hours since we parted, I was excited to hear from him.
I scrolled to the voicemail and tapped Play.
KARSON: Ivy, I know you’re not home yet. But I need to tell you something.
I smiled.I love the sound of Karson’s voice.A warm glow tickled my skin.
