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A waiter directs us to a table with a red umbrella to protect us from the sun. The sapphire blue pool has floating tables all decked with candles, tinsel, and angel statues.
“It’s so pretty,” I tell him.
Samuel pulls out a chair for me to sit. I can imagine him as the perfect gentleman in society.
“Thank you.” I sit opposite him and Rose, then take in the colorful ornaments surrounding us.
“I love Christmas.”
* * *
After our meal, we retreat to our room, and I nap for an hour until Rose wakes me ready to feed.
Samuel is sitting on the balcony. Lifting Rose from her crib, I walk out onto the balcony to feed her in the chair beside him.
Below us, the pool hums with revelers still celebrating.
“Do you think we could take another drive tonight and find more Christmas lights? I’d love to see the huge Christmas tree in Rahaman Park.”
“Of course,” he says and strokes Rose’s crown. “I hope to discuss something with you.” His eyebrows pull together, and there’s a seriousness in his eyes.
Oh no.
His expression is scaring me, so I glance down and focus on Rose feeding. “What is it?” I murmur.
“You know I love you and Rose and only want what’s best for you both,” he says in a level voice.
“Just tell me, Samuel.”
“I need you to go home and be safe with your family.”
I nod, still not looking at him. “And you’ll eventually join me?”
I look up when he takes my hand between both of his. “I promise I will. As soon as possible.”
I scan his face. “But that’s not what you want to discuss with me, is it?”
Samuel holds my gaze before speaking. “Tomorrow, there’s a jet flying directly to Adelaide with a stopover in New Zealand. I’d like you on it.”
My heart goes to my throat. “And if I say no?” I rasp.
“Please, Eden. I needed to take the extra measures to keep you both safe.”
“So, I don’t have a choice?” I croak. “Why now? Why not wait until the new year?”
Samuel bows his head.
A sob escapes my throat, and I can’t control it. I sniff loudly. “No.” I shake my head. “I’m staying here with you!”
35
EDEN
The Following Day…
“We’re ready to board,” the flight attendant says to me.
“So, this is it.” I swipe a tear before it trails down my cheek.
