Page 87 of Redeem Me

Surprise flits across Alexander’s eyes. ‘And he hasn’t terrified you off yet?’

The only thing that’s terrifying is how hard and fast I’m falling for him.

‘He’s not as big or as bad as everyone makes out,’ I beam. Caelon coughs to hide his snort.

‘Well, I’m so glad it’s working out,’ Vivienne clucks, leaning into my ear as Orla climbs onto my lap. ‘Caelon deserves some happiness.’

I nod, but don’t comment, all too aware of little ears listening. The waiter returns with the wine, and we order a selection of tapas.

‘How long are you here for?’ Vivienne asks.

‘I’m stuck here for at least another week,’ Caelon replies. ‘Although you can go home before, if you want to?’ he says to me.

‘Hmmm, let me think about that,’ I tease, ‘Stay in this luxurious five-star hotel with my two favourite kiddos and my broody boss,’ I tickle Orla’s ribs, ‘or go back to dreary Dublin with my two favourite kiddos and see if Uncle Rian calls in for a visit.’

Caelon growls, his nostrils flaring. Vivienne and Alex exchange a look of surprise.

Alex steers the conversation towards business, and Caelon launches into a long-winded, boring spiel about red tape, regulations, and structural repairs. I tune out, drink more wine than I should as Vivienne keeps up a rapid stream of conversation which thankfully, requires little or no response. The woman is warm and so welcoming, but my God, she can talk.

‘We go to the Eden spa every Friday; you simply must join us! Have you met my daughter, Zara?’

I shake my head. ‘I met Scarlett, though.’

‘Scarlett is such a doll. She’s so good for James. And the kids are just adorable. I miss them all, but we’ll be home in a couple of weeks. It’s good for Alex to get away. Even though he’s retired, he’s a devil for ”popping into the office” to check on the boys.’ She rolls her eyes dramatically, ‘Boys! They’re all men now.’

That we can agree on.

By the time we’ve finished eating, the kids are practically asleep on the table.

‘We might have to take a rain check on the boat trip.’ I cradle Orla’s head and reposition her on my chest. Her eyelids are fluttering closed, even as she protests that she’s not tired.

‘What’s this about a boat trip?’ Vivienne asks Caelon.

‘I’d arranged some time off this afternoon to take them out.’ Caelon lifts an equally exhausted looking Owen onto his lap. ‘Looks like we might have to give it a miss. Pity.’ His eyes stray to mine.

‘You two go,’ Vivienne says. ‘Alex and I will take the kids for the afternoon. They’re not the only ones who need a rest. We’ll take them up to our suite and put a movie on for them, won’t we, Grandad?’ Vivienne stares pointedly at her husband. ‘You two go have some fun.’

Alex’s eyes glitter. ‘Caelon is overdue some fun. He’s always so serious.’

That’s what he thinks. Caelon’s been having a lot of fun lately. It’s me who’s been getting serious. Although, Caelon’s decided he wants to tell Dermot about us, so maybe I’m not the only one.

Chapter Thirty-Eight

IVY

The boat isn’t just a boat, it’s a multimillion-euro yacht, stretching an impressive one hundred and fifty feet from bow to stern. If I wasn’t already well-acquainted with Caelon’s beautiful big dick, I’d have to wonder if my darling boss was trying to make up for something. But no, he’s the full package.

The Beckett logo is emblazoned on the yacht’s bow in a gold italic font that matches the sign outside the hotel. It’s gleaming white with sleek aerodynamic lines and large, tinted windows that wrap around the main salon and upper decks, providing panoramic views of the sea. The deck is lined with polished teak, and there’s a spacious sunbathing area furnished with plush loungers and umbrellas.

A delicious warm breeze whips through my hair. I snap a hairband from my wrist and scrape my unruly beach waves into a ponytail on top of my head.

‘Did you bring my favourite bikini?’ Caelon asks, nodding towards the stern. He’s changed into a pair of navy swimming shorts and a white polo shirt that complements his tannedskin and taut muscles. Raybans shield his eyes from the blistering sun.

‘I’m wearing it under this.’ I glance around, looking for the crew, who made themselves scarce as soon as we set off, the yacht gliding gracefully through the azure water.

‘Good, we’ll anchor somewhere private in a while.’ His suggestive tone leaves his intentions crystal clear. My stomach flips. No matter how many times I have this man, I doubt it’ll ever be enough.

‘My parents loved you,’ Caelon says, taking my hand and guiding me towards one of the plush seating areas.

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