Beautiful Chances (The Beautiful Series) (5 page)

“College?”

“University of Southern California, bachelor’s in business.”

“Oh, nice. How about—”

“My turn,” he said with a grin. “Kill anyone or have stalking tendencies?”

“Nope,” I said, grinning back.

“So, you’re a photographer?” Kyle asked. “And what about the typing on the beach?”

“I’m actually a writer. Photography is more of a hobby.”

“So, that’s what you were doing on the beach yesterday?”

I nodded. “Yes, I like to write on the beach. I also enjoy editing pictures as soon as I take them.”

Kyle nodded. “How long have you lived in Florida?” he asked curiously.

I took a seat on the rocks in front of us and stared out into the ocean. Kyle sat next to me, bracing his arms on his knees.

“Almost three years.”

“And before that?”

“Colorado,” I answered hesitantly.

“Is that where you were born?” he asked, genuinely interested in my story.

I could tell from the corner of my eye that his eyes were fixated on my face.

“Yes,” I answered carefully, knowing the next inevitable question. I took a deep breath and waited for it.

“Family?” he asked.

My smile faded, and I tried not to let darkness overwhelm me.
I will not let it take this moment from me. I’m starting a new chapter…for closure.
I focused on the positives. “My Aunt Lucie and Uncle Dan live in Colorado with my three cousins, Jason, Blake, and Damon, who are all around my age.”

He frowned. “And what about parents or siblings?”

I shifted on the rocks, unsure what to say. Kyle noticed my small movements, but said nothing. “I don’t have any…anymore.”

Kyle slowly slid his hand back in mine, tighter than before. It was a small gesture, but it meant a lot to me. I thought that I would feel panicked, but oddly, he comforted me. My pain was reflected in his eyes.

“I know that’s part of the pain and sadness in your eyes, and I’m so sorry you’ve been alone. But not anymore, Lily, not anymore.”

He gave me a moment to gather my thoughts.

“Friends?” he asked.

“My cousins and I have always been close, and we had lots of fun growing up together. Here, I haven’t had much time for friends, other than Luke.”

“Ah, the pizza maker. I have met him a few times,” Kyle said neutrally, awaiting my reaction.

“Luke is a good friend and a good man. He’s in college, trying to make a life for himself outside of his family connections, so he’s not a permanent pizza boy.”

Kyle nodded. “Did you go to college?”

“Yes, I went to a local community college back home and earned an associate’s degree. I didn’t finish my bachelor’s.”

“So, do you think you’ll go back to complete it?”

I was silent a moment as I thought about an honest answer. “Maybe someday…at least, I’d like to think so.” I hesitated. “For now, I’m content with writing and photography.” Not wanting to reveal more of myself, I glanced out at the water before looking back at him. “Ready to start walking back?”

Kyle nodded. “Sure,” he replied.

I could see he had more questions, but he was holding back.

We stood and headed back in the direction of my cottage while making small talk here and there. Even during the silent moments, his presence was comforting.

As we approached my cottage, I found myself looking forward to snorkeling with him tomorrow. I loved new adventures, and I was pretty sure I was quite fond of Kyle, too. It was almost hard to let go of his hand. It just felt right. I still didn’t understand my feelings or the meaning behind them.

Standing on my porch, he said, “Lily, your world is about to change. I’ll see you bright and early for snorkeling. Sweet dreams.” He kissed my cheek and walked off into the night.

The doorbell rang way too early for my taste. No matter my age, I didn’t feel like I would ever convert to being an early bird. I dragged my feet along the hardwood and made my way to the door. When I opened it, I found Kyle’s eyes were full of light. As he took in my sleepiness, he bit his lip to stifle his amusement.

I was still trying to wake up half of my brain. “Ugh. You’re one of those morning people, aren’t you?” I narrowed my eyes at him, attempting to ignore that handsome face.

“Afraid so. Good morning, beautiful.” Kyle’s smile cracked, and then his eyebrows rose slightly. “Is that a deal-breaker for you?”

“Definitely,” I replied.

Kyle smirked. “I’ll have to be extra charming then. I can see you’re not ready yet.” His eyes danced with humor, but as they slowly drifted down my body, his gaze was hastily replaced with heat.

And that was when I realized that I was still in my PJs. My white cotton T-shirt and matching panties were anything but cute. They were old and worn, but oh-so comfy.
Crap!
I quickly grabbed my T-shirt and tried to stretch it farther down my thighs.
Way to start out the day, Lily!

His husky laugh told me it was a wasted effort. “I don’t think it’s going to stretch that far, but I will appreciate the view. As a matter of fact, I may stop over every morning.” He took a step closer and wrapped his hand around my waist as he lightly kissed my cheek. “Lily, when you’re dressed like this, you’re not making it easy for me to take this slow.” His voice was light yet filled with hunger.

I couldn’t help the pull of my body, aching to be closer to his. I slowly leaned in just to smell the scent of his soap that I was growing fond of. It was hard to form words when I was near Kyle. I hoped that it would get easier the more I was around him, or this would become quite embarrassing.

“Have you eaten breakfast? How about I make you some while you get ready?”

I had to give him credit for trying to be a gentleman in an awkward situation between almost strangers.

“Um, okay. Maybe just some toast and orange juice? That should be easy and quick. Make some for yourself, too. I’ll be out in fifteen minutes.”

“Alright. Take your time. We’ll go whenever you’re ready.” He turned, looking for the kitchen.

“It’s just around that corner.” I pointed in the general direction before retreating to my room to get ready.

My cottage was not very big, but for me, it was just the right size to feel comfy. The décor was mostly warm brown and beige tones, and the walls were covered with various photographs I had taken since I’d been here. Many were of sunsets and the ocean. Some were of trees and flowers that had vibrant colors and contrast. I had taken an empty cottage and made it my own safe haven.

As promised, fifteen minutes later, I emerged from my bedroom and walked into the kitchen, noticing the feast he had somehow prepared in a short time. The eggs, toast, and sausage waiting for me looked delicious.

“That was quick,” Kyle said. “I decided a man of my size needs a bit more than toast.”

I sat down at my small kitchen table facing the back patio. Each cottage had a secluded shoreline, so I could admire the ocean from the privacy of my home.

“Yes, I would hate for you to perish out in the open seas.” I took a small drink of my orange juice. “Do you cook a lot?”

“I try to. I’m not big on eating out, but sometimes, it’s inevitable.”

He brought the plates over. It was very cute to see a domestic side of him. I didn’t think he recognized he was revealing it.

“I love to cook, too, but I feel silly cooking a feast for one. So, what are the plans for today?” I asked.

“Well, first, I feed you, and then we are off to go snorkeling. Tonight, I have every intention of seeing you dress up in a black dress for a real date. Maybe we’ll go on a late-night walk on the beach, depending on how much I wear you out in the water,” he replied with a mischievous grin.

“We’ll see about that.”

Seeing a man eating at my kitchen table was definitely new for me.
A girl could get used to cooked breakfasts.
Kyle was quickly growing on me…a little too quickly.

Kyle was extremely efficient when he was on a mission. He had us on the boat, in our gear, and through a quick snorkeling lesson in less than two hours.

I looked at the ocean over the edge of the boat, deciding when I was going to make the big jump.

“So, are you going in by yourself? Or, am I taking you in with me?” Kyle asked humorously. Stalking his way closer and closer with each step, he was looking at me as if I were his prey.

That can’t be good.
“I’m getting in. Just taking in the view.” I pinned my eyes on him. “But you wouldn’t dare throw me in…would you?” I questioned now that the thought had crossed my mind.

“Oh, I would, and I will. So, what’s it going to be Lily? Are you jumping in? Or do I have to toss you in myself?” His eyes darkened in a seductive and domineering way.

I can do this.
I knew I could, but the big ocean made me feel so small. I had seen the ocean every day for the last three years, but I’d never been in it farther than my waist.
Chicken, I know.

But chicken, no more. Not this girl. Time for my big girl pants. Hope they fit.
“Okay, okay! Here I go!” I squealed.

I leaped off the end of the boat into the water, and Kyle was one step behind me. I came up sputtering and laughing as Kyle swam up to me, his broad arms gliding through the water effortlessly.

“Are you okay? I thought for sure I was going to get to push you in,” he said chuckling. “You actually jumped!”

“I’m more than okay. Now, let’s go see what we can find.”

“Alright, first, let’s go over this way toward the lighthouse, and then we can circle back. We are going to stay inside this area of the boat and shore because the tides get stronger on the other side.” He pointed in warning, giving me the diameter of the area to stay within.

“Okay, stay on this side. Got it. Anything else?”

“Yep,” Kyle said with another one of those sexy grins, “try to keep up.”

The man should not be allowed to grin. I rolled my eyes and took off ahead of him, laughing to myself. The water was very clear, much clearer than I’d expected, and I made sure not to get too close to the coral and rocks as I admired the absolutely breathtaking scenery.

Kyle swam around me with ease, his natural strength radiating from his body. He came alongside me and pointed to the other side of some large coral. As we went around, I saw two turtles swimming, one much larger than the other. It was amazing to be this close to them.

Near the lighthouse, we decided to take a break on the shore. I picked a spot far off to the right, so we could have some privacy. I sat down and began searching for shells to add to my store-bought collection, and Kyle quickly joined me. The shells were all very large with great details of color. I even found many tulip shells that weren’t broken.

“I hope I can find a sand dollar to take back with us.” I set aside a small pile of all the shells I planned to keep. “So, do you spend a lot of time in the water? You are a great swimmer.”

“I swam a bit in school, but I didn’t continue after that. Training for the Army has kept me in shape. What about you? Did you play any sports in school?” he asked while scooping sand off to the side.

Our outer legs were just barely brushing each other as we continued to dig.

“I didn’t play sports in school, but I’ve always enjoyed running on my own. It helps me clear my mind. I love to be outdoors, so I run outside, rain or shine, a few times a week.”

“So, what are your hobbies? How do you stay busy?” Kyle asked curiously. He pulled me closer, wrapping his arm lightly around my body.

“When I’m not writing, I’m usually taking pictures. I really enjoy the different outlets of creativity each one gives me. It would be hard if I had to pick between the two."

“That makes sense. I believe everyone has layers to who they are.” His eyes drifted out to the ocean, embracing the scenery.

“I believe that, too.”

We fell into a silence while gazing out at the water. My thoughts drifted to Kyle’s intentions of wanting to spend time with me. He deserved my honesty. He had been so kind, and it wasn’t fair to bring another person down with me.

Feeling the need to be truthful, I glanced in his direction, and he turned to face me.

“I need to be honest with you, Kyle. I’m still trying to sort out many things in my life. I’m not really sure that it’s fair to drag someone else along for the ride.”