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"No, you didn't, Aunt Maryann," I assure her.
"Yes, I did. Please, when you're back, just talk to me," she pleads. I release a sigh knowing this is unavoidable.
"Okay, we will talk."
"Oh, thank you," she says, and I give her a sad smile.
"How are you? How is Miami? Tyler said you are working with Jeffrey. That's a good reunion if you ask me. "
"There is no reunion, Aunt Maryann. "
"Nonsense," she says.
"Take this advice from me; enjoy your trip the best way you can," she says.
"It's a business trip," I correct her with a smile.
"Whatever. I can't wait to see you again." I chuckle.
"Me neither. Take care of yourself, okay?" I tell her.
"Will do," she replies before I drop my phone. I quickly get out of bed and take a shower. After getting dressed, I leave the room and take moment to admire the beautiful house. Surprisingly the living room is empty, and I feel relieved that Jeffrey hasn’t woken up yet. I assume the trip has tired him out or he is busy with Mildred. The latter thought doesn't sit well with me. as I continue to feel lucky, the entrance door opens and Jeffrey seps out.
Oh, my goodness!I think as I stare at him. His sweat torso and pants catch my attention. But it’s his perfectly sculpted body that leaves me in shock. It's my first real view of it. My throat feels dry as I stare at his abs. he’s exactly as I imagined. I try to tear my eyes away from him, but it's impossible. I watch as he finally notices me and smiles.
"Good morning, Phebe," he greets with a frown as he drops the towel he had been using to dry his hair around his neck.
"Good morning, Jeffrey," I respond. I'm mortified that my voice sounds husky to my ears.
"How was your night?" He asks as he walks toward the curtains and presses the button that opens them, revealing a view of the beach. He acts like if he isn't partially naked. I wonder if he’s unaware that his body is affecting my ability to think clearly.
"It was fine," I mutter. I know I need to leave before I do something foolish like throw myself at Jeffrey.
"We’re leaving in thirty minutes," he states. It takes a while for me to realize that his cold demeanor has returned.
"Sure," I squeak.
"Good. Matilda will make something for you for breakfast," he says, walking past me. Matilda must be Mrs. Brown. As he passes, I catch a whiff of his sandalwood scent. It seems like Jeffrey’s presence lingers everywhere I go. Staying in this beach house with him is proving to be a bad idea. Despite being in separate rooms and his relationship status, Jeffrey still has strong impact on me. trying to ignore his scent, I make my way to the kitchen, but I can't think straight in this state. His fragrance permeates the entire house.
“Good morning, Phebe.” Mrs. Brown’s voice startles me as I spin around. I had asked her to call me that yesterday.
“Good morning, Mrs. Brown,” I greet with a shy smile. Memories of Jeffrey’s warm body flush my cheeks.
“How was your night?” She asks.
“It was fine, and yours?”
“It was good. I was just about to come and check on you in your room when I heard your voice and Jeffrey’s,” she says.
“Oh, yes, we need to check out some properties today,” I inform her.
“Oh, that’s great. I made breakfast. I didn’t know what you’d like to have, so I made toast, omelette, and bacon,” she says.
“That sounds good.”
“Great. Please, come with me,” she says. I meekly follow behind her, unable to resist admiring the beautiful interior of the beach house. Whoever designed it clearly put a lot of thought into it. I was too exhausted yesterday to fully appreciate it. Matilda had kindly brought my dinner to my room, sparing me the stress. Now, seeing the interior in its entirely, I can’t help but admire it. We walk past the second hallway, I’m awestruck by the stunning paintings on the wall, no doubt is Jeffrey’s work. I had seen his pieces at his showroom, and I can’t think of anyone who is more talented than him in this regard.
One portrait catches my eye: a hand holding a heart dripping with blood. The dark background makes me think the deeper meaning behind it. However, I don’t have time to dwell on it as I try to pace with Mrs. Brown.
