Gorgeous: Book One (Gorgeous #1) - Lisa Shelby Page 0,22
I already know what she's thinking, and I like it.
"We'll see what you say after you've gone for a ride. Give her a chance, and I think she may just change your mind." She doesn't comment as I walk past her. "Make yourself comfortable, we'll be off in just a minute."
Lou and I discuss the water conditions, and I push the button that brings the beautiful vessel to life. We pull the boat away from the marina, and The Jupiter parked next to her, and slowly bring her to full speed. I love this feeling. It's only here on the water or on my motorcycle that I feel free, and all of the usual pressures of life seems to fade away.
I look over my shoulder to see how she's doing with the speed, and I'd say my sweet Rivarama may be changing someone's mind. I told her to get comfortable, and that is exactly what she did. Her feet are up, and her head is back with her hair whipping around her happy face. She isn't grinning from ear to ear, but she looks relaxed, and there is a small smile on her face that says it all.
She feels free too.
The water. The wind. The quiet.
There is something to be said for it.
The feel of the wind on your face, the spray from the water cooling your skin, and the roar of the boat speeding through the water. It's loud and intense, blocking out all other sound until you only hear the hum of the boat and the splash of the water. It's the loudest quiet you'll ever experience, in the best way possible.
There is nothing like it.
I can see her experiencing it all on her face. Her glasses are still on, but I know her eyes are closed. She is relaxed and loving every second of it. I'm glad I can bring her this small moment of peace. I tear my gaze from her and focus on the water ahead.
A short time later, we pull up to the Catalina Island marina. Lou jumps out to grab the rope and tie us in while I finish parking the boat. Olivia is running her fingers through her hair, trying to calm the knotted mess that comes along with the freedom of the water, and I can tell she feels like a mess too. I wish I could tell her how beautiful she looks, but she doesn't take to my compliments too terribly well, so I'll keep it to myself.
We leave the boat behind and find a car waiting for us. We're in another back seat together, but this time she makes conversation.
"Mr. McKinley, as much as it pains me to say it, you were right. She did win me over. I could have stayed out on the water all day. That was amazing." She says this looking out the car window and not to my face. I think it was hard for her to admit.
"Miss Adams, I am not sorry to say that your pain brings me pleasure and satisfaction. I knew she would win you over. I also know it was hard for you to admit you were wrong, so please know I appreciate your confession."
She rolls her eyes, but this time she turns to face me. "How is it possible that you seem to make everything sound so inappropriate? You have a real gift for it, you know that?" She follows this with a giggle I haven't heard before.
It pleases me she took my words the way she did. She's not a pure and gentle little girl who lets things slip past her. She calls me out on my bullshit, and it's hot as hell.
She is your employee.
As we near the hotel, I'm starting to feel anxious, not a feeling I'm used to. I work on high pressure deals with international companies, and I don't generally get as nervous as I am right now. I have a great deal of pride in all of my properties, but this one in particular. I have a special place in my heart for Haven, and some part of me is seeking her approval. She has a look of glee on her face when she gets out of the car. She takes in the beauty of the hotel and spins in a little circle as she takes in the open and ornate ceilings in the front entrance.
She does love a good ceiling. This is a good start, McKinley.