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“You are a valued client,” Kelsey said.

“That’s enough business talk for today. Terese will take you to your bungalow so you can get settled in. I’d like to have a short meeting with you and the brand designer in the morning,” Carmen said. “Don’t worry, it won’t be early. Everything moves a little slower on the islands.”

“Sounds great. I’ll see you in the morning,” Kelsey said.

Terese, the desk clerk, took Kelsey’s bag and she followed her out the back of the building down a path that went by an inviting swimming pool, and then opened up to the most beautiful beach.

“This is incredible,” Kelsey said.

“I know. I’ve lived here all my life and the view never gets old,” Terese said.

They left the path to walk over to a private bungalow. It had a small front deck with two chairs for lounging. Terese opened the front door and Kelsey was immediately drawn to the floor to ceiling windows that framed her own private view of the water.

Kelsey gasped. “This truly is paradise.”

Terese chuckled. “You have a deck through those doors. Sapphire Beach runs along the entire resort. It’s not too crowded this time of year, so it’s kind of like a private beach for you, especially after sunset.”

“Thank you, Terese,” Kelsey said, reaching into her purse.

“Oh, no, Ms. Kenny. It’s my pleasure,” Terese said, holding up both hands.

“Will you at least call me Kelsey?”

Terese smiled. “I can do that. If you’re hungry, I recommend the fine dining in the restaurant we passed when we exited the main building. The seafood is always fresh. If you need anything, please let me know.”

“I can’t imagine needing anything,” Kelsey said, looking around the room.

“Enjoy your stay. I’m always nearby if you need anything.” Terese laid the key card on the table and closed the door.

Kelsey opened the door onto her back deck and inhaled deeply. “Hello, paradise,” she said with a touch of optimism in her voice.

2

Isabella walked into her bungalow and gasped. “Wow, this is incredible.”

“I’m glad you like it,” Nadia said. “Where would you like me to leave your luggage?”

“Let’s see,” Isabella said, looking around the large room. “How about over there?”

Nadia rolled the bags in front of the closet. “Carmen has assigned me to be your assistant while you’re here. If you need anything at all, simply call the front desk.”

“Don’t you get to go home at night?”

Nadia chuckled. “I’m here a lot, but yes, I go home at night. Someone will always be at reception if you need anything while I’m not here.”

“Thank you,” Isabella said. “Do you do this for all your guests?”

Nadia smiled. “Well, not everyone, but we try to be extra available to our guests in the bungalows since you’re not in the main building of the resort.”

“Carmen didn’t have to do that for me. I’m supposed to be working,” Isabella said.

“I hope you’ll be able to enjoy the resort as well.”

“Oh, I plan to,” Isabella said. “Let me get something for you.”

“No, ma’am. I’m here for you. It’s all part of our service,” Nadia said.

Isabella tilted her head. “Are you sure? I don’t feel right not giving you something.”