Page 121 of Pervade Montego Bay

Things were heating up and not just from the sun. James and Xavier were in a good place with each other, and it was reassuring to see. They were deep in conversation, and the tension was gone, replaced with smiles and gestures of affection as they continued to cover each other with sunscreen.

Green-blue waves lapped over my feet and I breathed in the calmness. Palm trees lined the beach, bending and swaying in the breeze. There were a few straw huts where sunbathers could rest.

The place was deserted apart from us, but it was early, and I imagined the tourists would soon be arriving to enjoy the white sand and clear water.

Xavier shoved his T-shirt into his rucksack. He and James were both wearing swimming trunks.

James came over and joined me by the water’s edge. “How was Louis this morning?”

“Great. He told me he had fun last night. He’s so talented.”

“As are you, Em. I loved your performance.” James hesitated. “I’m glad it worked out and you were able to play.”

“Me too.”

“Did you have breakfast together?”

“Yes, he has a butler who spoiled us.”

James gave a nod. “Fredrick.”

“Louis and I drank coffee and talked.”

“What about?”

“How much he loves the island. He was telling me all the things there are to do.”

“Louis is fun to hang out with.”

“There’s something about him.” I studied James for a clue as to what that might be. “I can’t put my finger on it.”

“He’s one of the nicest men you’ll ever meet.”

“Where’s his family?”

James let out a sigh. “Well…”

My eyes shot to James’ hand—he was wearing his wedding band. I reached out and brushed my fingertips over his gold ring.

He was holding on toher.

James’ expression changed as he read mine. He went to say something and then glanced over at Xavier.

“Thank you for bringing us here. It’s so beautiful.” I brought his hand to my mouth and kissed his wrist. “Xavier really needs this.”

“We all do.” His brow furrowed. “Emily…there’s something I’d like to talk to you about. I mean, Xavier wants to say it—”

“Look!” I hurried toward the three horses being led down the beach toward us.

James caught up with me.

I felt a rush of excitement. “Are we riding them?”

“Yes, we’ll be riding bareback.”

“I haven’t ridden a horse in years,” I admitted.

“That’s okay. They’re very gentle.” James ran a hand over the muzzle of one the horses and then gave a nod of thanks to the young Jamaican who had led them down the beach.