Venus of Miami

Venus

Chapter 1

Venus DeLuca adjusted her oversized, designer sunglasses as she stepped off the private jet, the hot Caribbean sun immediately warming her face. Her hand brushed over the luxurious fabric of her custom-made floral dress, a creation by one of her favorite designers. The vibrant colors and flattering fit were a testament to her love for fashion and a symbol of her refusal to conform to any standard but her own. She breathed in the salty air, feeling a sense of freedom she hadn't experienced in years. She brushed away her warm brown hair face as she turned to face her friend.

"Welcome to paradise, darling," Barbie "Bree" Stone exclaimed, her voice full of enthusiasm. Bree's blonde hair shimmered under the sunlight, perfectly complementing her chic white ensemble. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she linked arms with Venus. "We are going to have the time of our lives!"

Venus smiled, grateful for her friend's unwavering optimism. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, Bree understood her in ways few others did. While Venus had grown up in the shadow of her father's criminal empire, Bree had always been in the public eye, navigating the treacherous waters of high society. Their bond had formed over their mutual desire to carve out their own paths, independent of the legacies imposed upon them.

Logan Hartt followed closely behind, his presence a silent yet imposing reassurance. His military-trained eyes scanned their surroundings with a practiced ease, ever vigilant. His broad shoulders and rugged appearance contrasted sharply with the opulence around them, yet he fit in seamlessly. Logan was more than just a bodyguard; he was a guardian, a silent sentinel whose heart beat fiercely for Venus, though he struggled to express it.

As they made their way to the resort's private villa, Venus felt a pang of guilt. She knew how hard Logan worked to keep her safe, but she also knew he deserved more than the stoic facade he presented. He deserved to let down his guard, to feel something other than duty and responsibility. Her thoughts were interrupted by Bree's excited chatter.

"Venus, look at this place! It's absolutely breathtaking," Bree gushed as they stepped into the lavish villa. The interior was a blend of modern luxury and island charm, with large windows offering stunning views of the turquoise ocean. "We have our own private beach! This is going to be the perfect getaway."

Venus nodded, her smile widening. "It's exactly what we needed. My dad wanted me out of the house and out of my slump" she explained. Barbie rolled her eyes knowing exactly what she was talking about.
"At least he let you come with just one guard this time." Bree teased Logan, who kept his gaze away from them.
"You know how he worries." Venus defended her father.
"Oh yes I do. It took him forever just to trust me being your friend." Barbie chuckles.
"Anyway, I have a full schedule of fun for us!" Barbie changed the subject as the two walked on.

The days that followed were a whirlwind of relaxation and adventure. Bree organized spa days and shopping trips, her infectious energy dragging Venus out of her shell. They laughed and talked for hours, the weight of their respective worlds momentarily forgotten. Logan remained a constant presence, his silent watchfulness a comfort to Venus. She found herself stealing glances at him, wondering what thoughts lay hidden behind his calm exterior.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the beach, Venus found herself alone with Logan. Bree had gone to a local charity event, leaving Venus and Logan to enjoy a quiet dinner on the villa's terrace. The soft sounds of the waves provided a soothing backdrop as they ate in companionable silence.

"Thank you, Logan," Venus said softly, breaking the silence. "For everything. I know it's not easy."

Logan's blue eyes met hers, a flicker of emotion breaking through his stoic mask. "It's my job, Venus. I'm here to protect you." She shook her head, reaching across the table to place a hand over his. "It's more than that, and we both know it. You've given up so much to be here with me. I don't want you to lose yourself in the process."