Page 27 of With Every Breath

ooooooooo

“Do you think there’s a world record for this?” Dex panted as we laid side by side, staring at the ceiling. It was dark except for the moonlight shining through the open balcony doors.

“I don’t know, but I’m sure there is?” I sighed. “I don’t think I can go again tonight, though. I think you might have broken me this last time.”

“I thought you could handle anything?” he teased.

“I can, but you’re pushing my limits. I want to be able to walk tomorrow.” I laughed. “We’re in paradise. Don’t you wanna see something besides the room?” My head rolled to the side so I could look into his eyes.

“I’m perfectly ok with spending the entire trip in here. My wife is hot. I like seeing her naked. I can’t do that out there.” He lifted his chin in the direction of the balcony.

“We can do this anywhere. I wanna see the island. Tomorrow we’re leaving the room,” I scolded before I burst into laughter. It was a warm night, but there was a breeze that filtered through the room, tickling our sweaty skin. It was comfortable, despite being warm. As I laid there bathed in the moonlight, I felt true peace. I was happy, happier than I’d let myself be in years. I was always afraid that I might not have tomorrow, and I had to prepare myself for it being a ‘last day’ or ‘last time’. Dex made me want to let go, to enjoy the moments for what they were, but to also not worry about the future. He made me see that I didn’t have to fear the unknown, but to embrace it.

ooooooooo

We spent the rest of the weekend touring the island. Dex booked a helicopter tour, we went to the cultural museum, and even partook in an authentic luau. It was a dream that I didn’t want to end, but here we were sitting in the airport waiting to board our flight home. “Remind me to plan a girls’ day with Madi soon. I need to thank her for all of this.” I smiled as I thought about all the fun we’d had.

“You know, some of this was my idea.” Dex pouted.

“I already thanked you… several times from what I remember.” I grinned as I leaned into his side.

“You can thank me some more tonight.” He snickered.

“That will depend on what time we get back to the condo,” I chided.

“I will drive like the wind if I have to.” He kissed the top of my head. Within a few moments, the doors to the bridge opened, and they began boarding the flight. I don’t remember much after that. Once seated, I leaned against Dex and fell asleep. Between the time difference and staying up most of the weekend, I’ve been exhausted.

“Rise and shine.” Dex nudged me. “We’re home.” My eyes fluttered as I looked around. We were back at LAX and the hustle and bustle of Cali.

“Five more minutes,” I grumbled.

“Nope. I was promised another thank you if I got us home quickly, and I’m holding up my end of the deal.” He chuckled as he stood and grabbed our bags from overhead.

“Who made that deal?” I pretended like I didn’t know what he was talking about.

“My wife. Have you seen her?” He held his hand out to help me up.

“Ha ha.” I rolled my eyes. “Let’s get our stuff, and go home.” I was tired of traveling. I missed my bed, and I did not enjoy the long flights.

“Your chariot awaits.” Dex motioned for me to go ahead of him.

Getting our bags at baggage claim took forever, the traffic was a nightmare, and I never felt so much relief when we pulled into our parking space. Hawaii was a dream, but it’s like everyone says, ‘there’s no place like home’.

“Home sweet home.” Dex opened my door and helped me out.

“Sure is.” I yawned.

“You sure are tired today. Wonder why that is?” Dex grinned.

“Someone kept me up the last few nights.” I giggled. “I might sleep for the next week.”

“Good thing you still have a few days before going back to work.” He wrapped his arm around me as we lumbered up the stairs.

“Yeah, and now I have to finish planning the reception for all our friends and family.” I yawned again. “Maybe I’ll get Madi to do it.” I laughed as we reached our door.

“Hold tight.” Dex set the bags down and fumbled with the keys. When the door opened, he tossed the keys on the table just inside. He spun and grinned at me as he scooped me into his arms.

“We already did this.” I threw my head back in laughter.

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