"Belle! There you are! I was starting to worry about you again. You having too much fun?" she teases me. "Don't forget to text or call some of us over here. You know, just to let us know you're alive." She chides me but I get her drift.
"I know, I'm sorry Julia. I've just been running from event to event since I got here, but it’s all good things, I promise." I assure her. "And look, before you know it, I'll be back and we can catch up on our roommate things." I try to sound convincingly excited to come back.
I take a few minutes to listen as she catches me up with the latest events in her life and with our friends. It's soothing and comforting to see her smiling face and hear her friendly voice, reminding me of all the creature comforts of home. But there is a twinge of sadness, knowing that this moment and this exciting week would have to be left behind. It felt so far away.
After we say our goodbyes, I rush off to my next press trip. I spend the afternoon touring with another group of writers while the press tour operator explains about the local life, imports and exports and culture of DR. I try to remain focused although all I can think about is him.
I snap a few pictures, jot down some notes, and take a few videos with my phone. Fortunately, I have some time to go back and work on this material before it needs to be written up and submitted to my editor. I struggle to remain present and just collect information for work. But my mind keeps wandering back to him. Every sweet thing he said to me, every smoldering look, every perfect touch.
The afternoon goes by slowly. But finally, we finish with our group dinner and I’m free to return and get ready to meet Ricky for the bonfire. I rush into my bungalow and quickly start getting ready for the night. I know he's not patient and doesn’t like to wait. I want to be ready and look perfect for him when he picks me up. I decide to go with the other casual but silky and elegant sundress he gave me.
There's a knock on my door. I look at the time. He's right on time as usual. After the final quick check in the mirror, I grab my purse and answer the door. Our faces light up when we see each other. I am always amazed by how incredibly handsome he looks.
"Belle, you look so perfect," he whispers. I giggle at his compliment and secretly think that I'm the lucky one.
"Come on, beautiful. It's a quick walk to the beach." he grins. I smile at him, "What, no limo tonight?" I tease.
During our quick walk, we make small talk, giggle and laugh each other’s jokes. Even though he's intimidatingly beautiful, I find him so easy to talk to and fun to be with. When we're together, I don't remember or care to think about anything else in the world. I just want to freeze time somehow, and live in this moment with him.
As we walk on the beach, I can see and hear the chatter and fun sounds coming from the bonfire. There's loud music and laughter, and a big fiery bonfire that’s self-contained with party crowds surrounding it on the beach. People and couples are walking about, dancing, drinking, laughing and just partying on the beach. As we approach, I see a familiar lone figure trotting out to meet us. Oh. It’s Edward.
"Hey! Good to see you here, Ricky. Belle." he smiles with his weasely eyes. "Great timing. Grab some food and drinks. Over there, go help yourself. I'll catch up with you later," Edwards says as he walks off.
I silently roll my eyes as soon as he walks away. I know he's Ricky's manager or friend or whatever, but it’s clear he doesn't like me. And there’s something about him I don’t trust. I brush the thought away.
Ricky takes my hand and pulls me into the crowd. "Come on, let's get some drinks and food. Let's get this party started, shall we?" He winks at me. I smile sweetly back at him. I always have a great time any time I’m with him.
The party atmosphere is light and fun. Ricky and I savor our time together, laughing and enjoying each other over drinks. Occasionally, I look up and see other girls check him out but strangely, he doesn't ever seem to notice or care.
"Belle, want to take a seat by the fire with me?" I allow him to lead me towards the front to take a seat by the warm fire. With a couple drinks in hand we snuggle close to each other. I wish I could capture this moment with him forever.
I'm vaguely aware that the music stops. A guy in the circle was strumming the guitar but stands up. He walks over towards the front, smiles and waves at Ricky before he passes him the guitar as an offering.
Ricky smiles back at him. At first, he tries to politely decline. The guy nicely insists, offering the guitar to Ricky. "Oh Ricky, you should play," I say. "You're not shy, are you?" I tease with a wink.
He freezes and slips me a side stare in a mockingly dramatic fashion. He nods his head slowly at my mock challenge. "Oh…okay. I see. Well, if you're daring me to, then I guess I have to."