Chapter 50
“Are you sure this thing is safe?” Celestina asked, tugging at the straps of her snorkeling mask as they stood by the edge of their villa’s private deck.
Kael grinned, already waist-deep in the warm, crystalline waters. “Absolutely. Unless you’re scared of fish, in which case…”
“I’m not scared of fish,” she retorted, rolling her eyes but smiling nonetheless. “I’m just questioning your expertise in organizing water activities.”
“Come on, Celestina,” he teased, extending a hand toward her. “The ocean’s not going to bite.”
With a dramatic sigh, she adjusted the mask and slid into the water, the cool embrace of the ocean a refreshing change from the tropical heat.
As they snorkeled, Celestina marveled at the vibrant marine life. Schools of iridescent fish darted past, weaving through coral gardens in hues of pink, orange, and purple. Kael swam beside her, occasionally pointing out something extraordinary—a shy sea turtle, a curious clownfish, or a cluster of starfish resting on the ocean floor.
When they emerged, dripping wet and breathless, Celestina couldn’t help but laugh. “Alright, I’ll admit it. That was incredible.”
Kael leaned against the deck, the sunlight catching droplets of water on his skin. “See? You just needed a little push.”
She raised an eyebrow. “If you call ‘nagging’ a push, then sure.”
The next evening, Kael led Celestina to a pair of sleek, translucent kayaks waiting on the shore.
“Kayaking?” she asked, crossing her arms with mock suspicion. “Are you trying to wear me out?”
He chuckled. “Not at all. This is about enjoying the view.”
Celestina’s gaze shifted to the horizon, where the sun was beginning to dip, painting the sky in shades of gold, orange, and pink. “Fine. But if I tip over, I’m holding you responsible.”
They paddled side by side, their movements synchronized as the gentle waves guided them across the lagoon. The water below seemed to glow as bioluminescent plankton sparkled with each stroke of their paddles.
“This is magical,” Celestina murmured, her voice almost reverent.
Kael glanced at her, his expression soft. “It is. But the company helps.”
She rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the small smile that tugged at her lips. “You really are trying, aren’t you?”
“Every day,” he said quietly.
“I’m just saying,” Celestina began, her hands on her hips as she surveyed the array of fresh ingredients in front of them, “if you’re going to cook, you shouldn’t look so terrified of the knives.”
Kael frowned, holding a chef’s knife as though it might bite him. “I’m not terrified. I’m… cautious.”
The chef overseeing their private cooking class chuckled, his tone good-natured. “Perhaps you let Lady Celestina handle the cutting, sir?”
“I think that’s wise,” Kael said, handing over the knife with mock seriousness.
As they worked together to prepare a traditional Maldivian fish curry, their banter filled the airy kitchen.
“You’re doing that wrong,” Celestina teased as Kael struggled to mix the spices evenly.
He gave her an exaggerated glare. “Says the woman who nearly mistook turmeric for saffron.”
“I was testing you,” she shot back, smirking.
When the dish was finally ready, they sat at a small table overlooking the water, savoring the meal they had created.
“This is surprisingly good,” Celestina admitted, taking another bite.
Kael raised an eyebrow. “Surprisingly?”
She grinned. “Let’s just say my expectations were low.”
Their final adventure took them to nearby islands, each offering a unique glimpse into Maldivian culture and beauty.
On one island, they visited a local market, where vendors sold handcrafted jewelry, vibrant textiles, and fresh tropical fruits.
Celestina held up a delicate bracelet made of tiny seashells, admiring its simplicity. “What do you think?”
“It suits you,” Kael said. “But don’t let the merchant hear that, or they’ll triple the price.”
She laughed, shaking her head. “Always the diplomat.”
On another island, they explored hidden coves and swam in secluded lagoons. Kael challenged her to a race back to the boat, but when he slowed down to let her win, she splashed water in his face.
“Cheating doesn’t count as winning,” he said, wiping water from his eyes.
“Says the man who let me win,” she retorted, sticking out her tongue.
That evening, Kael surprised Celestina with a private dinner on the beach. The table was set under a canopy of lights, and the sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop.
As they sipped wine and shared stories, Celestina found herself letting her guard down.
“This has been… unexpected,” she admitted, looking at him across the table.
“Good unexpected, or bad?” he asked, his tone light but his gaze serious.
“Good,” she said after a pause. “But don’t let it go to your head.”
Kael smiled, raising his glass. “To small victories, then.”
She clinked her glass against his. “To small victories.”
As their getaway came to an end, Celestina sat on the villa’s deck, watching the sunrise. Kael joined her, handing her a cup of coffee.
“Ready to go back?” he asked.
“Not really,” she admitted, her voice soft. “But I suppose we can’t stay here forever.”
“No,” he agreed. “But maybe this is the start of something better.”
She glanced at him, her expression thoughtful. “Maybe.”
