Total pages in book: 31
Estimated words: 28286 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 141(@200wpm)___ 113(@250wpm)___ 94(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 28286 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 141(@200wpm)___ 113(@250wpm)___ 94(@300wpm)
There’s a gentle knock on the door. It’s one of the crew, bringing a tray with a pitcher of water and a glass. I thank them quietly, taking the tray and placing it on the table. The routine helps settle my nerves, and soon, I find myself climbing into the plush, comfortable bed.
I snuggle under the soft covers, the cool sheets gradually warming with my body heat. The bed is luxurious, a far cry from my modest bed back home in Florida. It feels like I’m floating away from reality, cocooned in this temporary safe haven.
But sleep doesn’t come easily. My thoughts are consumed by Lorenzo’s protective nature and the way his strong presence makes me feel safe despite the chaos. I close my eyes, his face etched behind my eyelids. Those dark, intense eyes of his seem to see right through to my soul.
Finally, exhaustion takes over, and I drift off into a deep sleep. My dreams are vivid, filled with images of Lorenzo. We’re back on the yacht, but everything is bathed in an ethereal light. He’s standing at the edge of the deck, looking out at the horizon, his posture both powerful and solitary.
I approach him, my footsteps silent on the wooden deck. When he turns to me, his eyes are as dark and mysterious as ever, but there’s a softness there, a vulnerability that he keeps hidden from the world.
“Lorenzo,” I say, my voice echoing around us.
He reaches out, and I take his hand, feeling the warmth and strength in his grip. “Mira,” he replies, his voice a soothing balm. “You’re safe with me.”
The dream shifts, and we’re in a place I don’t recognize. All around us, I see an endless ocean under a sky filled with stars. We’re alone, but I don’t feel afraid. Instead, there’s a sense of peace, of understanding that transcends words.
He pulls me close, and I rest my head against his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. It’s a sound that anchors me, reminding me that, even in the midst of uncertainty, there is a place of safety. There’s a person who stands as my protector.
When I wake, the morning light filters softly into the stateroom. I lie still for a moment, the remnants of the dream lingering in my mind. His dark eyes and reassuring presence are engrained in my thoughts now, a part of me.
I stretch, feeling the gentle sway of the yacht as it continues its journey. Today is a new day, with its own challenges and uncertainties, but there’s a sense of resolve within me. Whatever happens, I know I’ll face whatever comes with Lorenzo by my side.
The bathroom is small but well-appointed, the shower offering a steady stream of hot water. I let it wash over me, trying to clear my mind and settle my nerves. Thoughts of Lorenzo linger, his dark eyes haunting my dreams and waking moments alike. There’s a strange comfort in knowing he’s nearby, even as the dangers of his world encircle us.
After drying off, I slip into my swimsuit and pull a lightweight summer dress on over it.
Taking a deep breath, I open the door and step out into the hallway. A security guard stationed down the hall nods at me, his expression professional but not unkind. “Good morning, Miss Jones. If you’re ready, I’ll show you to the main deck.”
I nod and take a deep breath to calm my nerves. “Thank you.”
The hallways of the yacht are quiet, the gentle rocking of the vessel creating a soothing rhythm. As we walk, I try to focus on the serenity of my surroundings, rather than the turmoil churning inside me. The security guard leads the way, and I realize his presence is both reassuring and a reminder of the stakes.
We climb a set of stairs and the passage opens up, leading to the main deck. The space is breathtaking with wide views of the endless ocean and the morning sun casting golden hues over everything. The air is fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of salt mixed with sunshine.
Lorenzo stands by a table set for breakfast, his back to me as he gazes out at the sea. He looks every bit the powerful, enigmatic figure that has taken center stage in my life. When he turns, his expression softens, and a genuine smile touches his lips.
“Bambolina,” he greets me, his voice warm. “Good morning.”
“Good morning,” I respond, feeling a sudden flutter in my chest.
He gestures to the table, a spread of breakfast delights awaiting us. My mouth waters when I glance at the huge array of fresh fruit, pastries, bacon, and sausage along with a huge pot of steaming coffee. “I hope you’re hungry.”
I chuckle a little when I see a mimosa sitting at my place. The sight and smell of the food make me realize just how hungry I am. “I am, thank you. This looks wonderful.”