Cole's waiting for me, casually leaning against the wall, and my body ignites under his heated gaze.He's changed too - a crisp white dress shirt paired with perfectly fitted jeans that make my mouth water.His hand dips into his pocket, and that cocky grin I love spreads across his face as he dangles the black silk tie between his fingers.
My pulse quickens as he blindfolds me again, anticipation making my skin tingle.
"You look stunning," he murmurs, pressing a kiss to the tip of my nose."Let's go, beautiful."
As we walk, I try to track our path, but Cole spins me playfully, destroying my sense of direction.
"Stop trying to figure it out."
I grin.This devil knows me too well.In the elevator, he pulls me against his chest, strong arms encircling my waist.When the doors open, he guides me forward.My heart races at the sound of a key turning in a lock.Then suddenly - warmth on my skin, a fresh breeze carrying the scent of...salt?
"Cole, where are we?"
"Ready for your next surprise?"
"Mmm...does it involve you getting naked?"
He chuckles."Naughty, Alex."
"A girl can hope."
"Stay here, little minx."
Moments pass, then his voice comes from further away."When I count to three, you can remove the blindfold."
"One...Two..."
I shift my weight, practically vibrating with anticipation.
"Three."
I push the silk up, blinking against the sunlight.My hand flies to my mouth as I gasp.The terrace has been transformed into a private beach paradise.White sand covers the floor, and against the wall stands a four-poster bed draped in red silk sheets.Ruby-colored pillows pile against the headboard, while two towering palm trees cast dancing shadows across the bed.
Cole stands barefoot beside a round table set for two - white linen tablecloth, wine glasses catching the light, a bottle chilling in silver, and fresh salads waiting.
"How did you do this?"I breathe, walking toward him.
"I asked Bella and Emma what you love.They told me about the beach, but also how you haven't felt safe there since the incident."His eyes hold mine."So I brought the beach to you."
"Cole, this is..."
He lifts my hand to his lips, pressing a warm kiss to my knuckles."This is my gift to you.My way of saying thank you."He smirks."Now step out of those sexy heels and join me on the private Walker beach."
I arch an eyebrow."Walker beach?Why not McQueen beach?Has a better ring."
"My house, my beach, my rules."He kneels to help with my shoes."Let's get these off."
God, he has no idea what he does to me.I lift each foot, giggling at the ticklish sensation as my bare soles sink into the warm sand.When he stands, his blue eyes burn into mine with an intensity that steals my breath.
"Today is about relaxing.Food, drinks, and us."
He kisses my forehead when I lick my lips."Patience.Let's sit."
We settle at the table, and Cole pours rich red wine into crystal glasses, holding his up to mine."A toast to our uninterrupted date.Finally having you all to myself."
I laugh, loving his directness.No games, just pure honesty.Taking a sip, I hum at the sweet, fruity notes dancing on my tongue.
"This is delicious," I say, watching him over the rim of my glass."What should I toast to?"
