Page 132 of My Real Love Affair

“Because you haven’t texted her in thirty-four hours either, genius. She probably thinks you’re dead too.”

“Oh god.”

“Yeah. I’m going to tell her you’re alive and let you deal with explaining why you ghosted everyone who cares about you.”

“I didn’t mean to.”

“I know. You were too busy being swept off your feet by a billionaire on a yacht in Tahiti. Which, honestly? Valid reason. But still. Text your mother.”

“I will. I promise.”

“And me. Every day. Multiple times a day.”

“Multiple times?”

“Melody.”

“Okay! Okay. Multiple times. I promise.”

“Good. Now I have to go call your mother back before she has me trace your location.”

“Thanks. I’ll remember to be more aware.”

“Good. Love you. Don’t die.”

“Love you too. And I’ll try my best not to die.”

She hung up, and I immediately texted my mother, then pulled up Instagram to post a quick story—just the view from our stateroom window, the ocean stretching to the horizon. Captioned it with a couple emojis. I didn’t need words.

I was in the middle of applying some of the expensive facial serum when Austin appeared in the doorway.

“There you are. I was coming to rescue you but got caught up talking to Jean-Pierre.”

“Jean-Pierre?”

“The chef. He’s planning something elaborate for dinner tonight and wanted my input.” He leaned against the doorframe, watching me with amusement. “You okay? Cleo didn’t have a complete meltdown?”

“Oh, she had a complete meltdown. But she’s okay now. Mostly.” I capped the serum and turned to face him.

He laughed, pushing off the doorframe to come closer. “Well, for what it’s worth, I’m glad you forgot about your phone last night. Means you were too present with me to think about anything else.”

“Is that your way of saying you’re a good distraction?”

“The best distraction.” He pulled me close, and I went willingly. “Now come on. Breakfast is ready, and then we’re going to the beach.”

“The beach? Really?”

“Really. Unless you’d rather stay on the yacht?”

“No! Beach. Definitely beach.” I looked down at myself. “But I should probably change first.”

“Probably. Although I’d be fine with you wearing that dress all day.”

“It’s wrinkled and I slept in it.”

“Still looks good on you.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “You’re impossible.”