I glance across at the building opposite mine and notice an unusual amount of activity. It seems some big shot has arrived, booking the priciest suite for weeks on end. I chose the other VIP section precisely because I didn't expect anyone to splurge on such luxurious accommodations here; after all, our resort primarily targets the middle class.
The lights in the suite are dim, suggesting the guest is already settling in. I'll introduce myself tomorrow, I decide. With that thought, I turn and head back to my own quarters, already anticipating the restful night ahead in my new sanctuary.
*
I start my day by inspecting the kitchen, ensuring that the food supplies are secure. Then, I make my morning rounds, checking for any emergencies and touching base with the staff. My routine leads me to the communal pool, where the sight of children running around and splashing in the water brings a hidden smile to my face. Their energy is infectious, even this early in the morning.
A couple soon joins the children, jumping into the pool with carefree abandon. Feeling a pang of jealousy, I decide to indulge in a swim myself but in the privacy of my own side of the resort. I'm sure the staff is tired of seeing me hovering around, always managing something or other.
Returning to my room, I change into my bathing suit. Before heading out, I tend to the small potted plant beside my bed, sprinkling some water onto the seed I planted there. The daisy flower now rests securely inside a silver locket that hangs around my neck.
Every so often, I wake up disoriented, half-expecting to still be married to James. The weight of the locket against my chest reminds me that those days are behind me. This is my second chance, and I intend to make the most of it. With a determined smile, I head out to the pool, ready to embrace the day.
As the morning light filters through the windows, casting a warm glow across my room, I feel a wave of gratitude for the heated pool. The idea of a refreshing swim before starting my day is too tempting to resist.
I step out onto the pool deck, savoring the serene ambiance. The water looks inviting, shimmering under the soft sunlight. With a contented sigh, I slip into the pool, the warmth of the water enveloping me instantly. I glide through the water, letting the gentle resistance soothe my muscles and clear my mind.
*
I spend some time working on my hologlyph, sending emails and reviewing proposals. It seems there's never a day of rest for me. Among the emails, I find several from Ethan, my secretary and best friend. With a flick of my hand, I make a call on my intercom. A few movements later, Ethan's face appears before me, his raven hair tousled and his gray eyes looking tired.
"You look stunning," I tease.
"I bet I do, definitely no thanks to a certain boss of mine who decided to up and leave yesterday," Ethan retorts, rolling his eyes. I can't help but snicker.
"Suck it up, you just might be the highest-paid secretary in all the stars," I brush him off. It's true—Ethan could probably buy half a minor planet with what I pay him.
"Yeah, yeah. Anyway, your grandfather called to 'check in on you' after the accident," Ethan says.
I scoff. "Like that old bastard actually cares."
"He does. You're his favorite," Ethan snickers.
Our conversation shifts to work, and after an hour, I cut the call.
I hear the splash of water and realize it must be my neighbor. Deciding to introduce myself, I stand and close the hologlyph, watching the 3D display disappear. After all, I'll be here for some time, and a bit of small talk could be beneficial.
I step outside into the morning light and see a vague feminine figure under the water in the neighboring pool. Intrigued, I walk over, ready to make a new acquaintance.
She must have noticed me standing by the edge of the large pool. As I watch her swim towards me, I grab a towel from a nearby chair to offer her. Soon, the most beautiful woman I've ever seen emerges from the pool, climbing the small stairs at the side. She looks like a siren, water dripping off her hair and body in the most tantalizing way. Is she a model or some kind of entertainer? It should be illegal to look like that.
"Hey," her voice snaps me out of my daze, and I find myself staring into honey-brown eyes.
I cough a little and offer the towel. "I heard the sound of water and thought I'd come to make your acquaintance," I say.
She flashes me a blinding smile. "I was planning to do the same later today, but this is good too," she replies.
I reach out my hand. "Zane...uhh... I'm here on a mini vacation," I stutter, feeling my cheeks burn with embarrassment. But you don't get to be where I am without having a mean poker face.
"Leona, owner. Welcome," she says, placing her hand in mine.
"Thank you," I respond. Just then, a breeze sweeps by, causing goosebumps to rise on her skin and her nipples to harden beneath her bikini top. I quickly release her hand, pretending the marble floor beneath us is suddenly very interesting and make a hasty escape.
"I'll see you around," I say, trying to sound casual.
"Likewise," she replies from behind me, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.
As I walk away, I can't help but think to myself that this trip just got a lot more interesting. The brief encounter left my heart racing and my mind buzzing with curiosity. Leona, the owner of this place, with her captivating smile and enchanting presence, had just turned what I thought would be a quiet getaway into something far more intriguing.