Chapter 444

The distant sound of waves made Vivian toss restlessly in bed.

Outside her door, the clamor of footsteps and voices shattered any hope of sleep.

She yanked the door open and found herself staring into Ethan's intense gaze.

"What's this madness in the middle of the night?"

Without a word, he seized her wrist and pulled her out of the room.

"Let go!"

She stumbled as he dragged her forward. The moonlit island glowed with lights, the sea breeze carrying its briny scent.

"Where are you taking me?"

Ethan didn't slow his pace. "You'll see."

They passed through a grove of palm trees, and the view opened up. An elegant table and chairs stood on the sand, bathed in warm golden light.

"Drink."

He gestured to the array of bottles—whiskey, brandy, champagne—their contents shimmering invitingly.

"Not interested."

Vivian turned to leave, but Ethan pressed her into a chair.

"Humoring me."

He pulled out insect repellent and sprayed it meticulously over her exposed skin. His fingers brushed her wrist, sending a shiver through her.

"I can do it myself."

"Stay still."

His tone brooked no argument. He lit a mosquito coil, the faint sandalwood scent drifting through the air.

Amber liquid swirled into a glass.

Vivian downed it in one gulp.

"Slow down."

"More."

Ethan had barely poured half a glass when she snatched the bottle from him.

"Since when is the mighty Mr. Roscente so stingy?"

She took a long swig, the alcohol burning her throat.

A strawberry glistened with droplets on the fruit platter. Ethan speared it and held it to her lips.

"Eat something."

She turned her head away and refilled her glass.

Three drinks later, a flush crept up her cheeks.

Ethan watched her silently. This stubborn woman buried her vulnerabilities so deep.

Waves lapped at the shore, moonlight draping over them both.

How he wanted to tell her—

Some burdens weren't meant to be carried alone.