Page 78 of Lost & Found

He wanted to quiz me about her. I could see the curiosity burning in his eyes. It was probably a great idea to put a little distance between us, but I needed to ensure Isabella was comfortable first.

“Yeah, let me get my girl settled and I’ll meet you down there.”

Lisa touched my arm, getting my attention. “Oh my, I forgot to tell you. So thirty-two of the thirty-three rooms here have waterfront balcony views. Hannah, being her normal self, requested the largest guest room. And guess what?” Lisa giggled.

“Dare I ask?”

“She may have gotten her wish of nine hundred and fifty square feet, but her room is the only one with no water view,” she snickered behind her hand. “And not only that, but it only has a Murphy bed. Serves her right for being so picky and they are sold out, so she can’t change her mind.”

Chase spoke up, bringing some balance. “But her room does seat eight with a big dining table, so who knows, maybe we’ll crash her room for our card game. Do you play cards, Isabella?”

“It depends,” Isabella offered quietly.

The lift dinged once more, and the doors opened.

“So everyone else is here?” I asked Lisa as we stepped out.

“Yeah, a few had long flights like yours, so they decided to call it a night. Most of the days and nights will be relaxing. We do have at least one wild night planned.”

“Wild? You?”

She threw an affectionate punch in my direction. “Yes, this is our last bit of freedom. He gets a stripper, so do I. It’s only fair, don’t you think?” Lisa asked Isabella.

“Most definitely.” Isabella laughed. Her body language was relaxing more and more.

“I suggested Chase and his groomsmen put on a show for us, but he nixed that idea. Something about not wanting to share his physique with the other women. I think it’s because he knows Pasha has all the muscles now,” she paused, “I’m really glad you came, Isabella. I can’t wait to get to know you better. I think I’m going to turn in for the night, we’re on the same floor. Chase, can you come with for a second?”

Lisa gave me a side-hug and then trotted down the hall with Chase in tow. Isabella sighed.

“See, I told you she was nice.” I nudged her. “Shall we?” I mock bowed and swiped the card key before opening the door.

She stepped in and I followed, bringing our bags. I took a deep breath and looked around. The walls were painted a soothing gray, giving the space a modern and sleek feel. Shutters lined the large wall of windows and the sliding glass door to the balcony.

The bed was large and inviting. It dominated the center of the room. Its plush pillows and crisp white linens beckoned me. I was exhausted. I noticed Isabella staring at it as well.

“I’d offer to sleep on the couch but looks like we don’t have one,” I offered, my gaze landing on the only other furniture that you could sit on.

Two plush chairs sat around a small table in one corner, and a dresser with a large screen TV sat on one wall. My hand nervously went to the back of my head as she remained quiet. What I wouldn’t give to have access to her thoughts.

Tearing my eyes from the bed, I looked around once more. There was a fireplace directly across from the bed. And a large standing mirror positioned against one wall. Its frame reflected the soft glow of the overhead lights, and Isabella was standing just right. I could see both our images in the reflection.

“It’s fine, Pasha. I think I can manage sharing a bed with you.”

Her words brought a smile to my lips. The only alternative involved the two armchairs and a questionable amount of optimism.

“Oh, God, do you snore?” she asked, a hint of mischief in her eyes.

I placed a hand over my heart in mock indignation. “Me? Snore? I would never,” I replied with a grin. “But I should warn you I’m a deep sleeper. So keep your knife handy. I may need you to protect me from burglars if they break in.”

Her head whipped around. “Is that a possibility? Because, I’m ready.”

I threw my head back and roared. “You going for the Achilles’ heel?”

“Worked for Tori.”

A fire burned in her eyes. Her mentioning that night had me going down memory lane. Again.

“Shower and get in bed. It’s late and tomorrow will more than likely involve a lot of walking.”