by Alicia Rae
“I hope you have a sexy black dress and heels. I can’t wait to see these toned legs in them.”
In my mind, I was rummaging my closet, trying to decide which shoes to wear. Hmm, I think I have the perfect pair to make the man suffer a bit.
“Okay,” I breathed. “Oh, and Kyle?”
“Yes?”
“I like wildflowers—you know, for the hearts and flowers part. Wildflowers are the only flowers I like.”
“I’ll see what I can do.” Kyle beamed over at me. “In the meantime, let’s get back to our suntan, and I’ll remember to reapply your lotion every fifteen minutes.”
I rolled my eyes at him. “I’m pretty sure the bottle says every hour if not longer.”
Kyle’s grin widened. “Better safe than sorry.” He paused. “How about we take a walk on the beach?”
“Sure.”
When we rose to our feet, he grabbed my hand to help me up, and I took in his full height, estimating he was about six-three. At five foot nine, I had to tip my chin to meet his eyes.
I couldn’t help the smile forming on my face as I thought about my upcoming date with Kyle. My first real date. At twenty-four, I was embarrassed to say that I had not been on a date before. In high school, I had been very focused on my grades and getting into a good college. School and my family had kept me extremely busy and distracted from boys.
“Are you thinking about that date?” Kyle said teasingly as I walked a half-step behind his long strides.
A small blush crept up my cheeks. “You bet. I have high expectations for my first real date—”
I ran into a hard wall of muscle as he stopped dead in his tracks. He pivoted quickly, and his arms came out to steady me as he looked down into my eyes. I was glad no one was on this side of the beach as I quickly figured out my mistake. This was not a conversation I wanted to have with a man—let alone, this gorgeous man in front of me.
“First real date?” He hesitated. “Can you explain that, please?” He looked tense and confounded as if he was waiting for me to admit it was a joke.
My mind lost focus as I stared straight ahead, trying to decide what to say or how much to reveal to him. The sight of his naked upper body kept distracting me, and I just wanted to run my hands up and down his chest and shoulders. I needed to know what he felt like. I was overwhelmed with all these new feelings coursing through me.
“Lily? First real date?” he persisted.
“Oh, yes, first real date. Did I say something wrong?”
Kyle’s surprised look said we would discuss this further, but I was still hoping to avoid it. It wasn’t easy being a twenty-four-year-old who hadn’t dated…and was still a virgin. But I was definitely not going to discuss that or the out of control sensations my body was feeling.
“You’ve never been on a date before? Ever?” he asked incredulously.
“Ah, not really, no. Is that okay? If not, I can just head back to my cottage and forget—”
“Yes, it’s okay. I’m just surprised. You’re beautiful, Lily,” he answered kindly, looking gently into my eyes. His expression immediately softened as he took in my uneasiness. “I’ve noticed you have many admirers. I’m just taken aback that you haven’t ever accepted any of their offers, that’s all,” he explained as he took my hand in his.
“I’ve just been busy I guess. I’ve had a hard few years,” I said defensively, feeling like I didn’t owe him any explanation.
“Lily, besides writing, you haven’t been busy in the few times that I’ve seen you. However, I have noticed the sadness in your face.” He hesitated, clearly wanting to tread lightly. “I can see it in your eyes. I hope to one day lift that burden and bring light into those beautiful ocean blue eyes. But back to your first date…I’m honored, Lily. I hope I can make it special for you. Hearts and flowers will be new for me.” He raised my hand and kissed the back. “Come on, let’s walk.”
I tried to process what he’d said as we began to walk along the shoreline. It was a lovely sight of just miles and miles of ocean. The tides were rolling in, crashing against our legs.
When we came up to the large rocks, two boys came barreling around the corner, and they almost collided into me. Before I had time to react, strong arms wrapped around my waist. As Kyle tucked me closely into his side, I tried to stabilize my breathing. I realized that I would have been seriously injured if Kyle hadn’t moved me out of harm’s way so quickly.
“Thank you,” I whispered, tightening my hand around his.
“You’re welcome. Those punks are lucky. If they would have hurt you, I would have chased them down.”
I smiled widely at his protectiveness. It was a serious turn-on for me. I moved my body in front of his, wrapped my arms around his neck, and pulled him in for a hug.
“Really…thank you,” I said, still shaking.
“You’re welcome.” He leaned down and enclosed his strong arms around my lower waist.
I smiled as I looked up at him.
“I love your smile, Lily. I will work very hard to see it as much as possible…every day.”
It warmed my soul to hear such comforting words while feeling a warm body pressed against mine. I had felt so lonely these past three years, and I knew the longer I enjoyed our time together, the harder it would be to give him up.
On the way back, I decided to fill the silence. I still knew next to nothing about him. “So, let’s move on to round two of the pre-stalker date scan.”
He snickered softly. “Fire away.”
“Ever kill anyone? Or do you have a stalking record?”
Kyle frowned, deliberating his answer. “Ah…yes and no.”
I immediately tensed and prepared my body for flight.
He laughed and grabbed my waist. “Relax, Lily. I served in the Army for four years. So, yes, I had obligations to my country. And no, no stalking record,” he said.
“Oh, okay. How long have you lived in California?”
“My whole life, other than my military years. I love it there,” he answered easily.
We kept walking along the shoreline. We passed a few kids who were working together to build a sand castle. I smiled at them and then continued with my questions, curious to know more about Kyle.
“Family?” I asked hesitantly.
“Normal parents. I grew up in Lake Tahoe with my family. My parents have been happily married for over thirty years. I have a brother and a sister. My brother, Ryan, just married his college girlfriend, Kate, and they are awaiting the arrival of my niece. We are all very anxious to meet her. My sister, Abbey, works with me in real estate. I have a normal dog, too, who chews some of my stuff.” He chortled.
I could hear the love in his voice during the brief description of his family.
“Friends?”
“I grew up with my best bud, Drake. He and I went to college together. We tried to stay in contact during my four years in the military, but it was hard. When I came back though, it was like I’d never left. I haven’t had much time for others since I work a lot.”
“College?”
“University of Southern California, bachelor’s in business.”
“Oh, nice. How about—”
“My turn,” he said with a grin. “Kill anyone or have stalking tendencies?”
“Nope,” I said, grinning back.
“So, you’re a photographer?” Kyle asked. “And what about the typing on the beach?”
“I’m actually a writer. Photography is more of a hobby.”
“So, that’s what you were doing on the beach yesterday?”
I nodded. “Yes, I like to write on the beach. I also enjoy editing pictures as soon as I take them.”
Kyle nodded. “How long have you lived in Florida?” he asked curiously.
I took a seat on the rocks in front of us and stared out into the ocean. Kyle sat next to me, bracing his arms on his knees.
“Almost three years.”
“And before that?”
�
�Colorado,” I answered hesitantly.
“Is that where you were born?” he asked, genuinely interested in my story.
I could tell from the corner of my eye that his eyes were fixated on my face.
“Yes,” I answered carefully, knowing the next inevitable question. I took a deep breath and waited for it.
“Family?” he asked.
My smile faded, and I tried not to let darkness overwhelm me. I will not let it take this moment from me. I’m starting a new chapter…for closure. I focused on the positives. “My Aunt Lucie and Uncle Dan live in Colorado with my three cousins, Jason, Blake, and Damon, who are all around my age.”
He frowned. “And what about parents or siblings?”
I shifted on the rocks, unsure what to say. Kyle noticed my small movements, but said nothing. “I don’t have any…anymore.”
Kyle slowly slid his hand back in mine, tighter than before. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to me. I thought that I would feel panicked, but oddly, he comforted me. My pain was reflected in his eyes.
“I know that’s part of the pain and sadness in your eyes, and I’m so sorry you’ve been alone. But not anymore, Lily, not anymore.”
He gave me a moment to gather my thoughts.
“Friends?” he asked.
“My cousins and I have always been close, and we had lots of fun growing up together. Here, I haven’t had much time for friends, other than Luke.”
“Ah, the pizza maker. I have met him a few times,” Kyle said neutrally, awaiting my reaction.
“Luke is a good friend and a good man. He’s in college, trying to make a life for himself outside of his family connections, so he’s not a permanent pizza boy.”
Kyle nodded. “Did you go to college?”
“Yes, I went to a local community college back home and earned an associate’s degree. I didn’t finish my bachelor’s.”
“So, do you think you’ll go back to complete it?”
I was silent a moment as I thought about an honest answer. “Maybe someday…at least, I’d like to think so.” I hesitated. “For now, I’m content with writing and photography.” Not wanting to reveal more of myself, I glanced out at the water before looking back at him. “Ready to start walking back?”
Kyle nodded. “Sure,” he replied.
I could see he had more questions, but he was holding back.
We stood and headed back in the direction of my cottage while making small talk here and there. Even during the silent moments, his presence was comforting.
As we approached my cottage, I found myself looking forward to snorkeling with him tomorrow. I loved new adventures, and I was pretty sure I was quite fond of Kyle, too. It was almost hard to let go of his hand. It just felt right. I still didn’t understand my feelings or the meaning behind them.
Standing on my porch, he said, “Lily, your world is about to change. I’ll see you bright and early for snorkeling. Sweet dreams.” He kissed my cheek and walked off into the night.
The doorbell rang way too early for my taste. No matter my age, I didn’t feel like I would ever convert to being an early bird. I dragged my feet along the hardwood and made my way to the door. When I opened it, I found Kyle’s eyes were full of light. As he took in my sleepiness, he bit his lip to stifle his amusement.
I was still trying to wake up half of my brain. “Ugh. You’re one of those morning people, aren’t you?” I narrowed my eyes at him, attempting to ignore that handsome face.
“Afraid so. Good morning, beautiful.” Kyle’s smile cracked, and then his eyebrows rose slightly. “Is that a deal-breaker for you?”
“Definitely,” I replied.
Kyle smirked. “I’ll have to be extra charming then. I can see you’re not ready yet.” His eyes danced with humor, but as they slowly drifted down my body, his gaze was hastily replaced with heat.
And that was when I realized that I was still in my PJs. My white cotton T-shirt and matching panties were anything but cute. They were old and worn, but oh-so comfy. Crap! I quickly grabbed my T-shirt and tried to stretch it farther down my thighs. Way to start out the day, Lily!
His husky laugh told me it was a wasted effort. “I don’t think it’s going to stretch that far, but I will appreciate the view. As a matter of fact, I may stop over every morning.” He took a step closer and wrapped his hand around my waist as he lightly kissed my cheek. “Lily, when you’re dressed like this, you’re not making it easy for me to take this slow.” His voice was light yet filled with hunger.
I couldn’t help the pull of my body, aching to be closer to his. I slowly leaned in just to smell the scent of his soap that I was growing fond of. It was hard to form words when I was near Kyle. I hoped that it would get easier the more I was around him, or this would become quite embarrassing.
“Have you eaten breakfast? How about I make you some while you get ready?”
I had to give him credit for trying to be a gentleman in an awkward situation between almost strangers.
“Um, okay. Maybe just some toast and orange juice? That should be easy and quick. Make some for yourself, too. I’ll be out in fifteen minutes.”
“Alright. Take your time. We’ll go whenever you’re ready.” He turned, looking for the kitchen.
“It’s just around that corner.” I pointed in the general direction before retreating to my room to get ready.
My cottage was not very big, but for me, it was just the right size to feel comfy. The décor was mostly warm brown and beige tones, and the walls were covered with various photographs I had taken since I’d been here. Many were of sunsets and the ocean. Some were of trees and flowers that had vibrant colors and contrast. I had taken an empty cottage and made it my own safe haven.
As promised, fifteen minutes later, I emerged from my bedroom and walked into the kitchen, noticing the feast he had somehow prepared in a short time. The eggs, toast, and sausage waiting for me looked delicious.
“That was quick,” Kyle said. “I decided a man of my size needs a bit more than toast.”
I sat down at my small kitchen table facing the back patio. Each cottage had a secluded shoreline, so I could admire the ocean from the privacy of my home.
“Yes, I would hate for you to perish out in the open seas.” I took a small drink of my orange juice. “Do you cook a lot?”
“I try to. I’m not big on eating out, but sometimes, it’s inevitable.”
He brought the plates over. It was very cute to see a domestic side of him. I didn’t think he recognized he was revealing it.
“I love to cook, too, but I feel silly cooking a feast for one. So, what are the plans for today?” I asked.
“Well, first, I feed you, and then we are off to go snorkeling. Tonight, I have every intention of seeing you dress up in a black dress for a real date. Maybe we’ll go on a late-night walk on the beach, depending on how much I wear you out in the water,” he replied with a mischievous grin.
“We’ll see about that.”
Seeing a man eating at my kitchen table was definitely new for me. A girl could get used to cooked breakfasts. Kyle was quickly growing on me…a little too quickly.
Kyle was extremely efficient when he was on a mission. He had us on the boat, in our gear, and through a quick snorkeling lesson in less than two hours.
I looked at the ocean over the edge of the boat, deciding when I was going to make the big jump.
“So, are you going in by yourself? Or, am I taking you in with me?” Kyle asked humorously. Stalking his way closer and closer with each step, he was looking at me as if I were his prey.
That can’t be good. “I’m getting in. Just taking in the view.” I pinned my eyes on him. “But you wouldn’t dare throw me in…would you?” I questioned now that the thought had crossed my mind.
“Oh, I would, and I will. So, what’s it going to be Lily? Are you jumping in? Or do I have to toss you in myself?” His eyes darkened in a seductive and domineering way.
I can do t
his. I knew I could, but the big ocean made me feel so small. I had seen the ocean every day for the last three years, but I’d never been in it farther than my waist. Chicken, I know.
But chicken, no more. Not this girl. Time for my big girl pants. Hope they fit. “Okay, okay! Here I go!” I squealed.
I leaped off the end of the boat into the water, and Kyle was one step behind me. I came up sputtering and laughing as Kyle swam up to me, his broad arms gliding through the water effortlessly.
“Are you okay? I thought for sure I was going to get to push you in,” he said chuckling. “You actually jumped!”
“I’m more than okay. Now, let’s go see what we can find.”
“Alright, first, let’s go over this way toward the lighthouse, and then we can circle back. We are going to stay inside this area of the boat and shore because the tides get stronger on the other side.” He pointed in warning, giving me the diameter of the area to stay within.
“Okay, stay on this side. Got it. Anything else?”
“Yep,” Kyle said with another one of those sexy grins, “try to keep up.”
The man should not be allowed to grin. I rolled my eyes and took off ahead of him, laughing to myself. The water was very clear, much clearer than I’d expected, and I made sure not to get too close to the coral and rocks as I admired the absolutely breathtaking scenery.
Kyle swam around me with ease, his natural strength radiating from his body. He came alongside me and pointed to the other side of some large coral. As we went around, I saw two turtles swimming, one much larger than the other. It was amazing to be this close to them.
Near the lighthouse, we decided to take a break on the shore. I picked a spot far off to the right, so we could have some privacy. I sat down and began searching for shells to add to my store-bought collection, and Kyle quickly joined me. The shells were all very large with great details of color. I even found many tulip shells that weren’t broken.
“I hope I can find a sand dollar to take back with us.” I set aside a small pile of all the shells I planned to keep. “So, do you spend a lot of time in the water? You are a great swimmer.”