Eleanor spent the weekend preparing for the trip. She bought sunscreen for her daughter and a whole arsenal for herself. Heading to the beach in the summer, she felt she needed every piece of sun protection gear imaginable just to feel at ease.
Evelyn was also incredibly excited. She packed her own little travel bag with her favorite dresses, and Eleanor was happy to let her experience the fun of packing for herself.
lan was busy for those two days, needing to take care of some things before the trip.
On Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., lan's private jet was ready.
Evelyn was beaming with excitement. Serena wore a casual maxi dress, while lan was dressed in a simple white polo shirt and dark slacks, exuding a relaxed vacation vibe. He stood by the jet's stairs, talking with the pilot.
Shortly after, Gavin Young and three of Lanny's men arrived.
The journey wasn't long. After a smooth, two-hour flight, they landed at a large airport on the island. The destination they had chosen was famous for its crystal- clear waters, fine white-sand beaches, and excellent privacy.
As the plane began its descent, the view through the window was breathtaking. Below, a verdant island was set like a gem in the ocean, encircled by white sandy beaches and rings of deep blue water that faded to lighter shades.
Eleanor's eyes also shone with anticipation. A week of relaxation in such a setting was indeed something to look forward to.
The plane landed smoothly on a private runway. When the cabin door opened, a warm, humid breeze carrying the scent of the sea washed over them. Three tour buggies were already waiting on the tarmac.
They rode in the buggies along a wide seaside road toward a large, modern, pure- white villa facing the ocean. It boasted an unbeatable sea view, and a private pool shimmered under the sun, connecting directly to the fine white sand of the beach.
"This is amazing!" Serena took off her sunglasses and spread her arms as if to embrace the sea breeze. She turned back and said, “Ellie, you can finally relax!”
Eleanor's mood was also bright. She nodded. "It's about time."
The butler and staff had been waiting and meticulously arranged everyone's rooms.
Eleanor and Evelyn were in one room, lan took the master suite on the top floor, and Serena chose a guest room near them on the second floor. Gavin and the security detail were given their own accommodations.
After settling in and having lunch,
Evelyn couldn't wait to get to the beach. Eleanor applied sunscreen on her, then on herself. She changed into atong bohemian style dress put a hat on her daughter, then braided her own hair and put on a lace-trimmed beach hat, looking casual, chic, and effortlessly relaxed.
Evelyn went downstairs and was immediately whisked outside by Serena. Just as Eleanor was about to follow, she heard footsteps behind her. Ian was coming down the stairs, also heading to the beach.
He had also changed. He wore khaki shorts and a loose white linen shirt
with the top two buttons undone, termed skin at the throat
revealin
and a hint of his chest. He had on a pair of flip-flops and was holding sunglasses.
His gaze lingered on Eleanor. Standing against the beautiful garden backdrop, she looked like a part of a painting-languid, fresh, and possessing an unconscious charm.
lan's lips curved into a smile. "Looks like everyone's ready."
"Evelyn and Serena are already at the beach," Eleanor said. "Let's go join them," lan said to her.
The beach glare was sharp, and when lan slid on his sunglasses, it only made the strong lines of his face stand out more. The glasses hid his normally piercing eyes and with a smile playing on his lips, his gaze-gentle and bewitching-fell on the woman beside him.
It was as if, in his eyes, no matter how beautiful the scenery was, it couldn't
compare to the allure of the woman by his side.