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Bhodi nods sympathetically. “I know, but it’s for your own safety.”
I sigh, knowing he’s right. It’s hard to accept that my life has completely changed because of something that I still don’t understand. But I also know that I’m lucky to have Bhodi and the others looking out for me.
“What am I supposed to do then?” I ask, feeling lost.
“We’ll figure it out,” he says with a reassuring smile. “For now, just enjoy the view and the sunshine. And maybe we can find something fun to do later.”
I nod, trying to push away the feeling of helplessness that’s been creeping up on me. Bhodi is right, for now, I just need to focus on the present and enjoying the moment.
As we sit quietly, staring out at the breathtaking view, a sense of calm washes over me. Despite everything that’s happened, I’m here with Bhodi, happy and alive. And that’s worth everything.
Suddenly, Bhodi looks over at me with an intense gaze. He reaches over to take my hand in his, sending tingles up my arm.
“Malia,” he says softly. “I don’t want you to worry about anything. I’m here for you, okay?”
I turn to face him, my heart racing. His eyes are so full of sincerity that I can’t help but flush.
“Bhodi,” I start, but he cuts me off with a kiss.
His lips are warm and soft against mine, sending shivers down my spine, his hands running through my hair, pulling me in closer. We kiss for what feels like hours, lost in each other.
“Bhodi,” I whisper, my voice barely audible.
“Yes, Malia?”
I take a deep breath, gathering the courage to say what I really want to say.
“I don’t want to hide anymore. I want to live my life without fear. I want to be able to go to class, to walk down the street, to do normal things without constantly looking over my shoulder. I need answers. I need to know what this danger is and what the threat is. I also want to be with all of you, openly and without reservation.”
Bhodi’s eyes widen, but then a small smile forms on his lips. “Malia, I want that too. I want to be with you, in every way possible.”
I get a rush of excitement and nervousness all at once. Could it be possible that we can be together, without fear or hiding?
“I know it won’t be easy,” Bhodi continues. “But we’ll figure it out, together. I promise. Just give us a little longer.”
I lean in for another kiss, feeling more alive and hopeful than I have in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, there’s a way for me to be free again.
Bless the guys for trying to take my mind off things, but I’m bored. I like learning. I want to go to class.
The first week at home was good. I was grateful for the rest and the guys took it in turns to keep my days filled and busy. We had fun, did lots of surfing, had way too much sex…but as I approach the end of my second week stuck at home, I’m starting to feel like a restless caged animal.
I need freedom.
And to make matters worse, the prof has been missing since our BBQ on the beach. I’d like to think it’s because he’s busy trying to find answers for me, but I can’t help but think he fed me a line and I fell for it. He’s avoiding me again to get out of having to give me answers, and for every day that he’s gone, my frustration grows.
And Istillcan’t get hold of Summer. I’ve tried calling, texting, emailing, reaching out on all of her socials, and nothing. Not a word from her. She hasn’t even posted online in weeks and that’s so unlike her. I’m worried. Even though she treated me horribly, she’s still my friend. Or I’m still hers. Whatever.
I’m concerned for her.
I stare out of the window, watching the waves crash against the shore, feeling the sting of salt in my nostrils. I need to get out of this damn house, I need to breathe in some fresh air. I grab my phone and rush out of the room, hoping that one of the guys is available to take me out for a bit.
The first one I find is Cove and he greets me with a warm, genuine smile. “Mai-Tai! How are you?”
“Struggling. Want to get some fresh air with me?”
“Of course.”
Cove and I make our way to the beach, walking side by side in silence. The wind whips through my hair and I breathe in deeply, letting the cool air fill my lungs.
