Page 91 of Pervade Montego Bay

“James.” He gripped my wrist and eased my hand away.

One more kiss, then all I had to do was walk away.

“Listen to me,” he said.

I pulled back.

“You’re not allowed to kiss me like this,” he said huskily. “Not until you’re wearing our ring.”

He stepped around me and walked away.

My hand snapped to my breast pocket where he’d slipped in the gold band. Feeling dazed, I leaned back against thewall as I tried to regain my composure.

It was torture, watching him leave.

Xavier spun around to face me as he continued walking backwards. “You have your rules, James. I have mine.”

He turned the corner and was gone.

Emily

Being around a grand piano of this caliber sent chills down my spine. Reverently, I placed my hand on the maple wood and admired its majestic design. I couldn’t wait to hear Louis play. This expensive instrument had been wheeled outside and placed on a patio near the sprawling lawn, which overlooked the ocean.

Louis had been kind enough to invite me to play my violin, too. The thought of performing in front of an audience filled me with joy. There was something special about sharing your music with others. It was cathartic—though the last time I’d played for an audience had been aboard Diana Zane’s yacht and that night had quickly taken a nosedive. Afterwards, things had continued to go downhill.

Nothing was going to soothe my disappointment at failing to get into the London Symphony Orchestra. It made my heart ache each time I thought of it. Still, my gift was mine to cherish and tonight there’d be a chance to heal my pride—for a little while, anyway.

I ran my hand over the cover, knowing this piano had a history. Adoration had kept this instrument pristine.

Louis walked toward me with exuberance, his face lit up with excitement for tonight.

I smiled at him. “I love your Steinway.”

He opened the cover, revealing the elegant keys. “My most cherished possession.”

“I can’t wait to hear you play.”

“The feeling is mutual, Emily.” He turned and shook hands with a couple he seemed to know well, engaging them in lively conversation.

I was also excited to play for Xavier so he could hear how amazing my new violin sounded. He always came through for me. Even though I’d saved James’ life by bashing my Strad over Ivor’s head on the yacht, the loss of the instrument was a terrible blow. But Xavier had stepped up again and replaced it. Even after I had betrayed him by playing at the concert he’d not wanted me to attend. I vowed to prove to him I could change and grow from that experience.

Closing my eyes, I felt the comfort of the warm breeze caressing my face and lifting my hair. The Caribbean already felt like home, with its natural beauty and famous beaches. It was a strange thought from a girl who loved living in London. This contrast to the city was a welcome change.

A few early guests were carrying boxes of toys into the house to donate to the orphanage. I loved being part of something so special. Across the lawn, a steel band were setting up. The musicians were laughing and showing off their island spirit.

Not far off, crashing waves provided a distinctive backdrop to this glamorous setting. The sunset cast spectacular shades of reds and oranges across the horizon. More guests were trickling in and finding their tables with their assigned seats.

“You look exquisite,” said Louis, turning his attention back on me.

“Thank you.” I tried not to blush. “Your home is lovely, Louis.”

“You haven’t seen the inside yet.” He beamed at me. “You’ll need therapy afterwards.”

“Why?”

“Don’t think badly of me.”

I sat down on the piano seat. “Why would I do that?”