Page 80 of Paradise in Progress
“Oh, please, I’ve always been a romantic.” She nudges my shoulder, and I refuse to touch that with a ten-foot pole. “What you have might not be perfect now, but nothing worth having ever is. Love isn’t immediate—it’s a paradise in progress.”
A paradise in progress?I like the sound of that. Clinking my bottle against hers, I lean back in my chair as we fall into silence. She came and said her peace, and now my brain is spinning with how I win back the girl.
My girl.
Paradise Perfected: Nelson Signature’s Newest Luxury Resort
By: Lisa Davenport, Travel Correspondent
Nelson Signature has once again raised the bar on luxury resorts with their grand opening of Paradise at Piton Peaks. This breathtaking resort is nestled near St. Lucia’s iconic Piton Mountains. The resort has opened its doors to eager guests looking for a one-of-a-kind island escape. The grand opening revealed a seamless blend of luxury and nature while allowing St Lucia’s tropical beauty to shine while merging with modern elegance.
With the recent opening, guests were able to experience fine dining options, including an entertaining hibachi dinner and private beachside dining. With eleven unique restaurants ranging from local cuisine, French crepes, authentic Italian cuisine, and American gastropub options, guests are bound to find something they enjoy and support a variety of dietary restrictions. Other standout features include multiple resort pools, in-house spa treatments inspired by the island’s natural volcanic mud baths, and private over-the-water villas coming Spring 2025. Guests are treated to an array of activities, from scuba diving to sunset cruises to horseback riding to mountain climbing. There’s an activity for everyone.
Spearheading the project is Mr. Nelson’s middle son, Tristan Nelson, an emerging star in the real estate industry. His forward-thinking approach has added a modern charm to the resort while keeping with the island’s natural beauty. His unique eye has set the resort apart from others, especially with the technological advances made throughout the property. Paradise at Piton Peaks has positioned itself as the top destination for those seeking a serene yet luxurious getaway.
Though the architectural team played a pivotal role in transforming the space, the Nelson family remains the face of the brand. Guests can expect unforgettable experiences at this new St. Lucia destination. With its perfect combination of luxury and adventure, the resort promises white sandy beaches, stunning sunsets, gorgeous views of the Pitons, and an unforgettable stay for guests looking for comfort in a five-star experience.
Chapter thirty-three
Kennedy
It’s been almost aweek since my sudden departure from St. Lucia, even though it feels like yesterday. The wounds are still raw, and I’ve been licking them since I left. My heart physically aches. I’m so angry at the way things ended.
The first few days were a blur. No, seriously, I couldn’t see clearly from all the tears I shed. I might have kept my composure the entire time I packed as I waited for Tristan to chase after me but, like a coward, he never did. The minute I climbed into the car, I lost it. I don’t know what I would’ve done if Tristan had come after me. Right now, I like to think I would have heard him out, given him a chance to explain why he didn’t have the decency to give me a heads-up. But at that moment, I was so completely devastated that I’m not sure I would’ve listened.
One thing I know is that I’m grateful this happened on a Friday, and I had the entire weekend to prepare for the office on Monday. The anxiety of how my coworkers would react kept me paralyzed with fear. Not only did I not want to deal with their looks and whispers, but I didn’t want to have to answer their questions, especially since there is no me and Tristan.Uswas a fragment of my imagination, a fairytale ending to rivalry.
I spent the whole weekend tossing and turning, sleepless night after sleepless night. Turns out, my body didn’t get the memo that she has to sleep alone now. No more cuddles with a sexy guy named Tristan. I dodged every call and text, only answering work-related emails. Long gone is the playfulness, and in its place are only the utmost professional responses. Mom always said to kill people with kindness, and that’s exactly what I plan to do.
He’s nothing more than my boss.
Oh, hell, who am I kidding? Even with this massive ache in my chest and the constant way I feel—mopey, miserable, and heartbroken—I still miss him.
God, I miss him so much.
Tomorrow is his first day back in the office, and I have no idea how I’m going to handle being in the same room as him again. The grand opening was Tuesday, and I was notified by email that he would be back in the office Friday for a debriefing meeting with the entire team. I wonder if it’s too late to call in sick…
As I’m lying on the couch, a romantic comedy plays in the background, because even if I can’t keep love, I can watch other people chase after their happily ever afters. My phone vibrates on the cushion underneath me, and I bring the screen to my face. A flash of excitement courses through my body at what I see. It’s the first time I've felt a positive emotion since I returned.
There on my screen is the news notification on Paradise at Piton Peaks' grand opening. Sitting up in my seat, my blanket falls to the ground as my heart pounds while I swipe open the article. My stomach churns with nerves as I skim over the article. It’s full of praise for the resort, giving it a glowing review for the grand opening. The articlementions the modern renovations, state-of-the-art technology, lavish guest experiences, and delicious food.Myrenovations.Myideas. They loved everything I put together. Tears flood my eyes as I’m hit with an overwhelming burst of pride.
As the article comes to an end, that pride quickly morphs into something else. Pain, disappointment, utter shock. Not once is my name mentioned. Nowhere in the article is it known that I had anything to do with this project. The only name mentioned over and over again is Mr. Nelson’s prodigal son, Tristan Nelson.
Rationally, I know it’s not Tristan’s fault his name is splashed throughout the article, but the irrational voice inside my head sure can blame him. Tossing my phone aside, I melt back into the couch. Add another tally to why I’m dreading tomorrow.
How could they not mention my name? Sure, they mention the team, but when does the lead architect not get any acknowledgment? I poured so much into this project, and nowhere will I receive the recognition I deserve. While I know it’s not that big of a deal at the end of the day, it was important to me. This project was everything to me. It was a steppingstone in my career.
Everything about it feels so…wrong.
“Don’t read the article! Don’t read the article!” Lana comes running out of her room in pure panic. Coming to an abrupt stop in front of the couch, my facial expression must say it all, because her shoulders deflate.
“Too late.”
“Dammit.” She moves around the coffee table and sits beside me, curling her body into mine as she wraps her arms around me. “Talk about a shitty week.”
“You can say that again,” I grumble, placing my head on her shoulder.
“Talk about a shi—” My hand covering her mouth cuts her off.
