They emerged into an open, canopied bridge, complete with another big wheel and control panels, and an L-shaped bench with padded seats. Down a short ladder at the back was a long deck that extended the rest of the length of the boat.
Bri sat on the bench and took in all the boats around her and the shore behind her. “What’s that for?” She pointed to a small metal crane that looked very out of place perched on the side of the deck.
“That’s how we get the dinghy up and down. It’s stored up here when it’s not in the water.”
“Wow. This is really amazing.” Her eyes continued to scan her beautiful surroundings.
“Yes, it really is,” Cole agreed. “Now that we’re finally alone, I have something for you.” He pulled out the small package he’d picked up before they came up top.
“Oh! Wait, I have something for you, too. I’ll be right back.” Bri rushed down to her bag and pulled out Cole’s gifts. When she got back, she handed him two brightly wrapped boxes. “Merry Christmas, Cole! You open your presents first.”
Cole was ecstatic when he opened the pair of designer sunglasses Bri got him. She knew he had been wanting them for a while now, and she’d even called Jimmy to make sure he wasn’t getting them for him for Christmas. The other present was an assortment of art supplies.
“Thanks, baby!” Cole pulled her in for a hug. “This is perfect! But you spent way too much money on me.”
“You’re worth it,” Bri kissed him. “I wanted to get you something special.” She picked up the box of art supplies. “I called your dad and he told me where you get your art supplies. I told the guy at the shop I was buying for you, and he said these were some things you might want. I hope you like them”
“I do. It was a very thoughtful gift. Thank you,” Cole kissed her again. “Your turn! Merry Christmas, Ambria!”
Bri opened the box to find a framed picture Cole had drawn of the two of them sitting on the beach. Cole had his arms wrapped around Bri and was placing a kiss on her temple, while she leaned into him with a happy, content smile.
“Coleston! It’s beautiful,” she got a little teary-eyed as she noticed how detailed the drawing was. He’d obviously spent a lot of time on it. “It’s perfect! Thank you!” She threw her arms around him.
“I have one more for you,” he pulled back and dug a small, blue box out of his pocket.
Bri took the box, recognizing the Tiffany’s blue, and opened it slowly.
“Oh, wow,” she gazed down at the silver butterfly pendant resting inside. “Cole, this is really too much! And you think I spent too much on you? I... I can’t... it’s too expensive,” Bri shook her head and tried to give the box back.
“It reminded me of you,” Cole pushed it back towards her. “I wanted you to have it. Here,” he pulled out the necklace and fastened it around her neck. “See, it’s perfect on you.”
“Thank you,” she smiled at him, getting teary-eyed again. “It is perfect. It’s exactly what I would’ve picked out. I love it. I’ll always wear it. Though now, in comparison, my gifts to you seem really lame.”
“Are you kidding?” Cole slipped on his sunglasses. “Do you know how long I’ve been eyeing these babies? They’re perfect!”
“Wow, just when I thought you couldn’t possibly get any sexier!” Bri pulled him to her, wanting to demonstrate her gratitude for his thoughtful gifts. They made good use of their privacy, and the padded benches on the bridge, before they were interrupted by the sound of the dinghy returning.
Later that evening, the whole group went ashore for dinner at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, Cole took Bri on a tour of the town, meandering up and down many of the side streets. Bri found the entire island charming. It was so far removed from what she was used to in LA. Avalon had more of a European feel, and she instantly fell in love with it.
After returning to the boat, Claire corralled the whole group for game night. One four hour marathon game of Monopoly, and a very rich, smug Sebastian later, it was time for bed. Cole kissed Bri briefly before she settled into the bow with Claire, and the lapping waves lulled her to sleep.
Bri woke the next morning to the smell of bacon. She glanced over to find Claire’s bunk empty. She climbed down, grabbed her brush from her bag, tried to tame her hair as best she could, and went in search of the others.
She found everyone seated around the dining table eating waffles, bacon, and eggs. Most of them were already dressed and ready. Cole was sitting in an armchair, his knee bouncing up and down impatiently. For a moment Bri was embarrassed. She was obviously the last one to wake, and it looked like they had been waiting on her. She walked down the stairs into the kitchen. Cole saw her and jumped out of his seat, wrapping her in a hug.