by Tamsin Baker
Olivia inspected Amy’s bungalow, her eyes and mouth going round at the bedroom and ensuite bathroom. “Oh, you definitely have a nicer place than mine.” She winked. “But my bed’s bigger—extra space for more fun.”
She opened Amy’s suitcase on the bed. “What says I’m ready, so come take me?” She lifted a sundress. “Yep, this one.” She wiggled her brows. “You’re going to knock those guys’ socks off.” She winked. “Make sure you’ll leave some for me.”
Amy laughed. “I think you’ve got that wrong.”
Olivia’s smile faded. “How many times do I have to tell you?” She raised a hand to stop Amy speaking. “You’re as gorgeous as you were before.” She pointed to Amy’s chest. “Just with a few changes.”
“And you’re cheeky as always.”
Olivia placed the russet-red sundress against Amy’s front. “Nice.” She dropped the garment on the bed and headed to the door. “Get ready and I’ll be back in half an hour.” Olivia opened the door. “We’re at an exclusive singles resort for the next seven days. There’s a hundred bungalows scattered over the island, so I’m assuming that half will have males.” She winked at Amy. “Let’s get exploring and find some hunky men.”
The path curved through well-kept gardens of lush, green leaf and colourful flowered tropical plants. The fading light sparkled through overhead palm fronds. A symphony of bird calls, waves crashing on the nearby beach and faint voices and laughter surrounded them.
“Still think the resort is sub-standard?”
“Maybe I’m wrong.” Amy paused. “Wasn’t it strange how every staff member reminded us to stay away from the island’s northern end?”
“No. It could have staff quarters or operational buildings. Isn’t what we’ve seen enough for you?”
Amy pointed to the mountain peaks overshadowing the palms in the distance. “I would have liked to trek up there.”
“Since when do you like hiking or mountain climbing?” Olivia chuckled. “Didn’t the concierge give you enough options when he went through the ‘welcome’ pack?”
“I don’t know.” Something’s strange about this place.
“Then there’s the night-time activities everyone’s really here for.”
Amy shook her head. “I know, but…”
“Stop. You’re here to brush away the cobwebs.” Two male staff walked past. “Otherwise we could have gone anywhere local.” One guy winked. “Fifty-five.”
“Olivia, stop doing that.”
“Why? What’s wrong with keeping a tally of possible ‘fun’ partners?” Olivia nodded at Amy. “You should start your own tally.”
Maybe I will. Amy touched the dark russet sundress. The light material hugged her hips then fell free around her knees. The halter-neck style cupped her breasts but left her tattoo visible. It’s been a long time since I felt this good.
Circular tables filled the large dining area and surrounded a crescent-shaped stage. They sat at a table near
the raised platform and waved at guests they’d met on the boat trip to the island.
The sky darkened and lighting placed around the stylishly decorated area came alive. Amy sat back. Lovely.
Olivia inspected the over loaded banquet tables. “I’m starving.” She turned her attention to the diners and the staff. “And there are so many choices.”
“Behave.” Amy chuckled. “At least for the next hour.” There were different sizes, ages, ethnicity and sexual orientations in attendance. Two men at a nearby table sat close, heads bowed in deep conversation. Two women at another table were doing the same. They’ve already found their fun partners.
All young, healthy people. She scrunched her fingers into her sundress. As I am now. She took a deep breath and forced the old memories away. Far, far away. No more cancer, no more pity. No more letting life pass me by.
A handsome male a few tables away smiled, then stood as if to come to them.
“Score one for Amy.”
“Shhh.”
Olivia grimaced. “Oh, no. Scratch that.”
A waitress appeared at the guy’s side and spoke close to his ear. He sat and she handed him the drink menu then trailed her fingers across his arm. A wide, dazed smile took over his face.
What a strange reaction. He seems hypnotized.
The woman leant forward and dropped her hand under the table. The man tensed and closed his eyes in bliss as the woman’s hand moved back and forth.
Is she doing what I think she’s doing? Shock filtered through Amy, tinged with envy and lust.
“Seems he’s found someone more entertaining.”
Amy glanced between her friend and the male guest enjoying the woman’s special treatment.
“Do you think people are only here for the sun? He’s getting an early start.” She gestured to the buffet tables. “At least there’s lots of good food.” She stood. “Come on.”
Amy filled her plate with yummy morsels. I’ll have to increase my daily run. The overloaded dessert section called to her. I’m going to get fat. Guests wandered around the food tables, filling their plates, interacting with many eager staff ready to assist them. The guests were clearly lapping up the attention as well as the good food.
A mocha-skinned chef approached Amy, his wide smile showing gleaming white, long teeth. “Good evening, lovely lady.”
“Hello.” His rough voice tightened her stomach muscles and quickened her breath. And not in a good way. She pointed to the food. “This is amazing.”
“I’m glad it meets with your satisfaction.” He took her hand. “If you need anything, I’m here to answer your every request.” He caressed her skin. “To give you any pleasure.”
Amy pulled away. “Thank you.”
The man radiated confusion.
Maybe he’s never been rejected before. Tough. “I should get back to my friend.”
“As you wish.”
Amy returned to their table and sat down. “That was weird.”
“What?” Olivia stuffed her mouth again. “Oh, yum.”
She flicked her head to the buffet tables and the chef that still watched her. “He came on to me.”
“And that’s a problem?”
“No, but…” The many wait staff hovered around guests both seated and around the buffet. “They’re all doing it.”
“What?”
“The staff. They’re all offering more than food and drink services.” Amy blinked as the gay men she’s seen earlier stood and left the dining area together, along with two other males. They divided into pairs as they disappeared down the path, each male staff member with a guest, their hands caressing each other, their destination easily determined. Is this the staff perk for working at a singles resort?
“I hope so. I’d do most of the guys here. Probably the women, too.” Olivia grinned. “That’d be a first, even for me.”
Heavy, hot air surrounded them, tinged with salty ocean brine and an easily defined musky aroma. It was lust, wafting from both guests and staff.
“You’re going to keep your promise?” Olivia leant forward. “No worrying, no explanations, no repercussions.” She nodded. “With protection, of course.”
“Yes.” I will, even if this place seems strange. Too perfect, too accommodating.
More guests and staff became very comfortable with each other. This is probably why everyone raves about this place—not for the first-class facilities and fabulous food, but the special night time staff benefits that no one talks about.
“Seventy-five.”
Amy chuckled. “I think you’ll need more than seven days to get through that many.”
“I’ll make the most of it.” She popped a strawberry into her mouth. “Will probably lose count but what can you do?” Their laughter filled the air.
I’d be happy with one. And I will find him. Someone to have a fling, to make memories I can reminisce on when I’m older.
Olivia moaned. “I want him.”
“Who?” Amy followed he
r friend’s gaze to a man standing at the dining area edge, surveying the guests and staff. Is he the night manager?
“He’s the top of my list.” Rapid breaths puffed from her open mouth. “I want him now.” She moaned again.
The man spun his head and grinned at Olivia, as if he’d heard her.
“Damn, I’ve never felt like this.” Her chest lifted with a deep inhale. “I’m burning up.” Her hand shook as she lifted her glass. “Can you feel it?” She took several sips.
Amy stared at Olivia’s flushed face and shaking body. At the other diners seemingly under the same erotic spell. Her stomach clenched. I feel nothing.
A band appeared on the stage and started rhythmic drumming.
Olivia hunched her shoulders. “I hate floor shows, especially the ones on cruise ships. So damn boring.” She gestured to the man. “I’d rather be with him.”
A group of dancers filled the large platform, their colourful, scant costumes highlighting their toned, striking bodies.
“You might like this one.”
The men and women told a story through dance, gymnastics and sound. Rhythmic, sexy, and totally arousing.
Pulsing waves of heat and lust floated around them. The dance movements were hypnotic. Moans filled the air and staff honed in on guests, rubbing shoulders, sitting on laps. Body moving against body, hands caressing, mouths touching.
Amy clenched shaking hands in her lap. I want someone. I want to be touched, be surrounded by strong arms. Held against a hard, hot body. Loved until we both melt.
Men approached her. Gorgeous men—eager to please, wanting her—but she refused all. Their disappointment and confusion was clear on their faces as they headed to others.
The dancers spread into the dining area, their bodies brushed against the selected, their hands caressed. Their voices hypnotized—the guests swayed in their seats, fixated on the entertainers.
Amy’s body erupted in heat. A deep ache vibrated inside and set off a ravenous hunger. I need. She waited for the man who’d set her senses alight. No, not here.
She cocked her head, hearing something. She glanced towards the beach. There.
“What’s up?”
The whisper came again, stronger, more heart-wrenching than before. He’s in so much pain. “You must have heard it that time?”
“Yes. And see it.” Olivia pointed to the gyrating bodies. “Feel it, too.” She watched the man in the shadows. “Oh, I’m feeling it.”
One by one, the dancers pulled the selected from their seats, lured them away and disappeared into the night.
The band left the stage to thunderous applause. Guests coupled with each other or interested staff, and the dining area cleared.
Olivia gasped and licked her lips. “Yes.”
He marched towards Olivia. Straight hair tied back in a ponytail, handsome despite the puckered scar that ran from brow to jaw. His eyes—piercing, cold. Slightly scary.
“Good evening, ladies.” He raised their hands to kiss them. “How are you enjoying our island home?”
He lives here? “It’s lovely.”
“It’s great.” Olivia moved closer. “I’m Olivia.”
“It is my pleasure to meet you, Olivia. I am Thierry.” The man focused on Amy. “And you are?”
“Amy.”
Thierry seemed to study her for a moment. “Amy, a lovely name. Did you enjoy the show?”
“Yes, it was great.”
“Please enjoy the rest of your night. Everyone here can assist you, should you wish anything.”
Olivia blew out a breath. “She wants to head to the beach. Said she could hear voices. How, with the music, I don’t know.”
Thierry turned to the palms that hid the beach. “You never know what you might find on our shores.”
Olivia cuddled against him. “Will you show me around?”
“I’d be delighted to.”
Olivia jiggled in apparent excitement, her mouth wide with a grin.
“Have fun.”
“Oh, we will.” Thierry caressed Olivia’s cheek. “Amy, don’t swim too far out. You don’t want the sharks taking a bite of your lovely self.”
“I won’t.”
He glanced towards the beach. “Leave the biting to someone else.” Thierry led Olivia away.
“Night, Amy.” Olivia waved and crossed her fingers in her direction.
“Night.”
Olivia disappeared into the darkness, her hands all over Thierry as he whispered into her ear.
Amy frowned. What did he mean by that comment?
CHAPTER TWO
Amy headed along the beach, away from the resort, the noise and activity fading with each step. I wonder what Olivia’s getting up to? Her mind replayed Olivia’s fixation with Thierry. Probably the same as the other guests are most likely doing.
Her skin tingled and her fingers twitched. Her body was on alert, excited, ready for something. A deep breath escaped from her lips. For what?
Calm silence wrapped around her, slowly ebbing the tension from her body. Waves lazily rolled into the shore and her toes sank in the wet, cool sand. The water called to her, the blue depths disappearing into the distance highlighted by the full moon. Maybe I do need a swim.
She waded in until the cool water lapped at her calves. What about the sharks? She ran fingers through the waves, her sundress weighed down by the water. I can’t. She trudged back to the dry shore. I’m not sure topless bathing is allowed, even at this time of night.
The overhead moon shimmer sparkled onto the waves and sand, lighting a clear path towards the island’s northern end. Her heart skipped against her ribcage. Should I? One step and her body hummed, the sounds around her intensifying. She paused, her limbs stiffened, in readiness for an unknown danger. An atmospheric change pulsed against her skin. She spun around, studying the empty beach. What am I searching for?
The whisper filtered through the night air, echoing in her ears. Where are you? She took one step, then another, pulled toward the mountain. The whisper sounded again. Her heartbeat thumped heavy. I can’t understand. Her skin prickled with shivers despite the warm night air. Who are you?
Amy’s feet led her toward the off-limits area, her heartbeat racing with every step, the unexplained urgency increasing with each breath.
The beach ended at the base of cliffs punching from the sea into the dark, star-filled sky. Palm fronds and rotting coconuts littered the sand. Amy frowned. This can’t be part of the resort. Thick, tall vegetation formed a wall between sand and jungle. The staff can’t live here. There were no buildings, paths, nothing man made.
A cloud of heavy, deep sorrow swamped her. She stumbled, her head thrown back. Amy gasped. What the—? She headed toward the cliffs and the tall figure pacing the craggy top. The man wore jeans like a second skin, his upper body naked. Muscles in his broad shoulders and wide torso moved fluidly under his bronzed skin bathed by the moonlight. What’s he doing there?
The man edged closer to the drop and stared at the ocean. His fisted hands clenched and released, as if fighting an internal battle. He lifted his face to the moon.
Amy stopped breathing. His face was stunningly handsome even from a distance. Who is he? The man dropped his head forward and stood for several moments. What’s he doing?
“Don’t.” The word echoed into the night air. He turned and studied her with a fierce intensity. Heat spiked inside her. He shook his head—as if questioning his sight—and retreated from the cliff’s edge.
A burst of air exploded from Amy’s lips and a wave of relief slowed her galloping heart. He’s safe. In the next instant, the man spun around and threw himself into the dark sky.
“No!” Amy’s vision wavered as tears filled her eyes. The man’s body suspended mid-air before he dropped into the dark, deep ocean.
Amy raced to the water’s edge. He’s killed himself. She paced back and forth, searching. Her gut churned and her throat spasmed, sobs bubbling up. Time slowed as waves continued
to break on the shore. Where is he?
His body erupted from the choppy sea to float—no movement other than bobbing, pushed one way, then the other by the ocean waves.
Is he on his back? Or face down? Blood pumped through her body. Is he injured? Do something. The beach was empty, no one around to help. Is he dead? Dread punched into her gut. No, he can’t be. I won’t let it. She ran into the sea, pushing against the battering waves, his body her target. Please be alive.
Amy plunged in and swam against the strong current to reach him. The man floated on his back, his arms outstretched, his eyes closed. Amy floated beside him and touched his face. Cold skin, too cold. No.
She placed her fingers on his full lips, but no breath warmed her. I’m too late. Waves battered against them as she held his body. She touched his chest, hoping, praying. No heartbeat. She bowed her head for a moment, pressing her lips together as tears threatened. When she raised her head, cool, grey, unblinking eyes watched her.
“You…you’re alive.”
He said nothing, his gaze trekking over her face, down her neck to her sundress floating around her in the water.
“Who are you?” She estimated how far away they were from the shore. “Can you move?”
“Yes.”
His gravelly, slightly accented voice stroked across her skin. “Let’s get back to shore.”
“If we must.”
Amy wrapped her arm around his upper body and pulled him towards the beach, aided by the man’s strong leg kicks. He stumbled onto the wet sand and dropped on his back, his eyes closed, his face serene.
Amy slumped beside him, her legs shaking with fatigue. Damn, I thought I had my strength back. His body was large, hard and glistened with sea droplets. Actually, I did well considering I was lugging someone like him.
“Don’t worry, I’ll get help.” She placed a hand on his chest. He’s not breathing again.
Amy knelt, tilted back his head and breathed sharp bursts of air into his mouth. She applied regular pressure to his chest then listened. Don’t do this to me. She tried to get her bearings. I need to find someone. Which way is the resort?
A large hand clasped her arm. “Don’t leave.”
Amy gasped. The man’s grey-flint gaze speared her, the breath catching in her lungs.