Page 7 of Spring Break with a Billionaire

I lean in slightly, holding her gaze firmly. “I didn’t expect this either. But sometimes the best things are those you don’t see coming.”

Her eyes meet mine, vulnerable and open. “You might be right.”

Our conversation continues comfortably, flowing naturally as we share more stories, laugh openly, and slowly open ourselves up. By the time our cups are empty, I feel as though I’ve known Cricket much longer than a single day. Our chemistry is undeniable, the pull between us magnetic and genuine.

Reluctantly, she glances at her phone, sighing softly. “I need to go find Abby.”

“Of course,” I say gently, trying to hide the disappointment in my voice. “Would you maybe want to have dinner sometime this week? Just you and me?”

Her eyes brighten, and a shy smile curves her lips. “I’d really like that.”

“Perfect,” I reply softly, feeling warmth bloom in my chest. “Then it’s a date.”

She nods, her gaze lingering warmly on mine. “It’s a date.”

As she stands to go, our eyes hold, a silent acknowledgment of the undeniable connection we both feel. We quickly exchange numbers, and she turns to leave. Watching her walk away, I know without question I’m falling for this woman. And despite any logic or caution, it feels right.

* * *

Cricket

I can’t wipe the smile off my face as I walk along the sandy path to find Abby at the bookstore. My heart still races from my unexpected morning encounter with Cameron. The conversation had been effortless, flowing naturally in a way that surprised me. I’d felt comfortable with him, more relaxed than I’d been in months.

But there’s something more—something deeper. Cameron is undeniably attractive; that much had been obvious from the moment we met. He exudes a quiet confidence, his presence calming and exciting all at once. But this morning I’d seen something else beneath his poised exterior—warmth, sincerity, and genuine kindness.

“Well, well.” Abby’s teasing voice interrupts my thoughts as I find her browsing shelves of worn paperbacks. “You look suspiciously happy.”

I roll my eyes playfully, unable to hide the blush spreading across my cheeks. “I’m allowed to be happy, Abby.”

She closes her book dramatically, smirking. “It wouldn’t have anything to do with Natalie’s charming dad, would it?”

I laugh softly, shaking my head. “Maybe a little.”

She leans closer, her voice conspiratorial. “I knew it.”

“Okay, fine,” I admit, grinning sheepishly. “We talked and it was nice. Really nice. He asked me to dinner.”

Her eyes widen in mock surprise. “Oh, you are in trouble.”

I sigh, smiling despite myself. “I think I might be. He’s just…”

“Perfect?” she suggests teasingly.

“No one’s perfect,” I remind her gently. “But he’s kind, smart, genuine, and really attractive.”

“Extremely attractive,” she adds, grinning wickedly.

“Extremely attractive,” I concede, laughing. “But I promised you no romance this trip.”

She nudges me gently, eyes sparkling with encouragement. “Cricket, you deserve to have fun. I was mostly teasing you when I said that. I just don’t want a repeat of your graduation trip. But you’re older and wiser now, you know we’re only here for a week, and whatever happens between the two of you has an expiration date. Why not enjoy yourself?”

I hesitate, weighing her words carefully. Abby’s right. I came here to relax, to have fun, and Cameron has made me happier and more relaxed in just a few conversations than I’ve been in months.

“I guess there’s no harm in just having a casual fling,” I finally admit, feeling a thrill of excitement. “It’s only a week.”

“Exactly,” Abby agrees, looping her arm through mine. “Enjoy it. You never know where it might lead.”

We leave the bookstore together, strolling lazily along the shoreline. My thoughts return to Cameron, the warmth in his gaze, the way he listened so intently to every word I said. I can’t deny my attraction any longer, not only to his appearance, but to his character, his quiet charm, and undeniable kindness.

---