Page 43 of Hibiscus Heights

They turned away from the main beach, pedaling along the coastal road. They rode side by side where they could, chatting easily. The pathway curved around rocky outcroppings and through patches of wind-sculpted pines, offering impressive views of the Pacific. This part of the island was natural and preserved from development.

After about twenty minutes, Deb gestured to a narrower trail that led toward a small, sheltered cove. “The locals call this Lover’s Beach.”

“This is the one Adrian mentioned,” Matteo said.

They dismounted their bikes and walked the rest of the way.

Deb removed her helmet. “Few tourists come here because it’s hard to find. Except for those who want some privacy. Mostly teenagers, but they come later.”

“It’s perfect,” Matteo said, taking in the view.

The small crescent of pink sand looked deserted, framed by rock formations that created a natural sense of privacy. The sun edged toward the horizon, but they still had time.

He retrieved his backpack and took Deb’s hand, leading her to the sand.

As they walked, Deb enjoyed the feeling of his hand solidly in hers. Though his touch lacked the magnetic attraction she’d felt touching Grant’s hand, it was sure and trustworthy.

Matteo stopped and dropped his pack. “This looks like a good spot.”

From the backpack, he produced a lightweight blanket, which he spread on the sand, followed by a paper bag and a bottle of wine. He brought out two shatterproof wine goblets and a corkscrew.

“This one is from my California vineyard. Would you open the bag while I pour the wine?”

Deb brought out a loaf of crusty sourdough bread, along with a container that held a selection of grapes, berries, cheeses, and sausages. She recognized the label from a gourmet shop in town.

She appreciated his effort and his excellent taste. “You thought of everything.”

“I enjoy elegant simplicity.” He poured two glasses of wine and handed one to her. “To unexpected journeys.”

They clinked glasses and settled onto the blanket, watching waves race to shore. The setting sun brushed the sky with rosy tendrils. Deb sipped her wine and sighed, truly relaxing for the first time since her encounter with Grant.

She had to get him out of her mind.

“This has always been my favorite time of day,” Matteo said, watching the sun sink lower. “At home, my family would gather on the terrace at the vineyard at this time. My grandfather used to say that even the most ordinary day deserves a beautiful ending.”

Deb smiled, touched by the sentiment. “Your grandfather sounds like a wise man.”

“He taught me everything about wine and quite a bit about life.”

Their conversation flowed easily from Deb’s design work to Matteo’s travels, from island gossip to childhood memories. As they ate and chatted, deeper streaks appeared in the sky.

“There goes the sun,” Deb said. She loved this time of day.

Matteo put his arm around her, and she leaned easily into the warmth of his embrace. As the last sliver of sun disappeared beneath the horizon, he turned to her. His eyes sparkled in the waning light, and she could feel his breath. Feeling curious, she tilted her face to his.

“I’ve been wanting to do this since we met,” he murmured.

Deb hesitated as thoughts of Grant flashed unbidden through her mind. But as her lips met Matteo’s, those thoughts receded. His kiss was tender and inquisitive. She slid her hand against his chest, then let her fingers linger on his cheek. This togetherness was pleasant, and she felt safe with him.

After a moment, he pulled back slightly, studying her.

“I’ve been looking for a woman like you. Smart and adventurous, who knows how to enjoy the fine things in life.” He paused to kiss her again. “I’d like to be alone with you. Will you take a trip with me soon?”

As handsome and intriguing as he was, a wave of uncertainty filled her. She knew what he was suggesting. “I’d like to know you better.”

He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it. “We don’t have to rush. I have the summer.”

Relief washed over her. She nodded toward the trail. “This part of the path isn’t lit, so we should start back soon.”

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