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“You know this is too much, right?”
“I hope you don’t really think that, or you might be upset at the next thing you’re about to see.”
We step down onto the area where boats are docked. We pass several rows of smaller boats and then turn left as we walk out further onto the dock. The boats in this section are larger than the ones we just passed.
“I realize this is a dumb question, considering we are surrounded by boats. However, are we going out on a boat?” I try to keep the excitement out of my voice. I haven’t been on a boat in years.
“Technically, it’s a yacht. Not a boat. But yes. I thought we could enjoy a sunset cruise over the water with a nice meal. Completely casual.” He winks at me.
“I feel like you’re trying to lay your Ethan Anders charm on me. This is so over the top, Ethan.” I ruin the admonition by laughing and grabbing onto his arm. “It does sound like fun, though.”
“Come on. The captain is waiting for us.”
Just then, we see an older gentleman in a white uniform step off one of the yachts. He waves at Ethan. As we get closer, the man’s face breaks into a smile, the corners of his eyes crinkling in happiness. “It’s so nice to see you again, sir. And I’m happy to meet you, Ms. Blakely.”
“Thanks so much. We’re looking forward to the smooth waters this evening. Looks like we have a nice, clear sky,” Ethan says.
“Sir, the weather is just perfect,” the captain agrees. “We’re ready for you if you’d like to hop on board.”
Standing on the dock, I look up at the impressive vessel. The hull is flawlessly painted in a pristine white, and it gleams as the sun hits it. The nameBella Winnyis written in navy on the stern. The sheer scale of the yacht has me dropping my jaw. It stretches several levels high and at least sixty feet long.
“Are you going to stand there and look at it, or should we actually board?”
I grin sheepishly up at him. “This is amazing. Does your family own this boat?”
“Yes, they own it. My dad purchased it a few years back. He refurbished it and then named it Bella Winny, after my mom. Do you want a quick tour?”
“Of course!”
Ethan takes my hand again and leads me into a large, spacious room with a winding staircase. There is a comfortable and stylish living room with plush couches and chairs, a bar, and a dining area. “This is the main level,” he explains.
“It’s beautiful. Do you do a lot of entertaining here?”
“My parents host pretty big parties a couple of times a year. I just bring friends here occasionally. However, now that my brothers and I are getting more involved with the company, we’ll probably need to take over the events and parties.”
He leads us into another room. There’s another well-stocked bar, a dart board, two card tables, and several bar tables and stools. “I’m guessing this is where you spend your time?”
“Actually, no. I prefer to be outside.”
“Then let’s go there.”
He grins, grabs a bottle of wine from the bar, and leads me to a door that opens to the deck. The sun is still bright, but it’s getting close to setting. It shines out over the water as the boat starts moving.
Ethan leads us to an area of brightly colored chairs, chaise lounges, and a beautiful teak table with seating for six. The table is already set for us with a fresh flower centerpiece, wine glasses, silverware, and plates.
He stops at the table and pours wine into our glasses. Handing me a glass, he waits as I hold it up to his. He flashes his adorable dimple at me. “To new beginnings.”
“To new beginnings,” I agree. The gleam in his eye tells me that he probably means something different than what I mean with that toast. Suddenly, I wonder if today is about getting me to stay in New York City. I hope that’s not what he’s up to.
As he leads me to the seating area, the uneasy feeling grows.
I sit on the couch and immediately realize my mistake when Ethan sits next to me. His leg brushes up against mine, and I quickly look to see if he notices. I feel the chemistry spark between us even though we’re fully clothed. If Ethan feels it, he doesn’t show it.
I should have chosen one of the chairs instead of the couch. He seems relaxed and oblivious to the situation; all I can think about is how our legs are touching and the proximity of his body to mine.
When he puts his arm around me, I automatically lean toward him. I know I should unwrap his arm from around me.
I know better than to put myself in this situation. But do I move his arms? Of course not.
