VALERIE
The ride back to the hotel was exhausting. Reed vanished as soon as we arrived, saying he had something to attend to. Giorgos drove him off to who-knows-where.
I sighed, thinking Reed was being his usual workaholic self. But I was grateful he'd been more present during our honeymoon.
My phone beeped, and I sat on the bed to read the text from Skye. I missed her so much. We'd been texting nonstop since I left. It was the first time we'd been apart for so long.
Skye: Hey sis.
Valerie: Hey. How are you?
Skye: I'm okay.
I frowned, knowing Skye's "okay" meant she was struggling. I worried about what might be wrong.
Valerie: What's wrong? Are you okay? Is Abuelita fine? What about Acio?
Skye: They're all fine. I'm fine too.
I felt relieved but sensed there was more to the story.
Valerie: But...
Skye: It's Tatia. We fought. She found out about Acio and me and ended our friendship.
I wasn't surprised. I'd expected this to happen.
Valerie: What happened?
Skye: I said something stupid. I'll tell you when you get back.
Valerie: Okay. Apologize to Acio and Tatia too.
Skye: I will. How's Reed? Is everything still good between you two?
Valerie: Yeah.
Skye: I'm glad. Tell me about your day.
I smiled and shared our adventures with Skye. After texting, I turned off my phone and headed to the jacuzzi, feeling the warm water envelop me.
I relaxed, feeling my muscles relax. This honeymoon had been perfect for us. Reed had been attentive, and I cherished our time together. I wished we could stay in beautiful Santorini forever.
As I drifted off to sleep, I wondered when Reed would return. I missed him already, having grown accustomed to his presence.
**********
As I opened my eyes, I was on the bed, but I had no recollection of how I got there. I rubbed my eyes, trying to shake off the haze. That's when I saw Reed standing on the terrace, his back turned to me.
My heart skipped a beat as I realized I was wearing a robe, and my cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
He must have seen me naked! I felt like crawling under a rock, hiding from the shame.
I tried to rationalize that he was my husband, and it was normal, but the shame lingered. I climbed off the bed and made my way to the terrace, my heart racing like a drum.
Reed turned, and our eyes met. His gaze was cold and piercing, sending shivers down my spine.
“What?.”
I flinched at his tone, feeling like I'd been doused with ice water. Tears stung my eyes as I looked at him, my lip trembling.
Reed's expression softened, and he pointed to his earpiece. I felt a wave of relief wash over me, realising he wasn't talking to me. But then I saw the earpiece, and my embarrassment returned.
I tried to slink away, but Reed called out, "Wait."
I turned, still blushing, and he spoke harshly to whoever was on the phone. I felt bad for the person on the receiving end.
I made my way to the couch and sat. I found a shirt of his on the seat and grabbed it. I brought it to my face and inhaled deeply, shutting my eyes.
I loved his scent.
“Valerie.”
I opened my eyes, startled. His gaze was intense and I blushed. He said nothing and wondered what he was thinking.
I glanced at his shirt, and my eyes widened as I realized I was still holding it. I had been sniffing it, inhaling his scent. I was mortified.
I averted my gaze, feeling ashamed. Why did I keep humiliating myself?
“Come here.”
I gulped and made my way towards him, still avoiding eye contact.
Reed chuckled and pulled me into a hug. "Why were you sniffing my shirt? Are you a dog now?"
I buried my face in his chest, dying of embarrassment.
“I won't judge. As your husband I understand that my wife wants my scent imprinted on her brain.”
I gasped, and he laughed, his chest vibrating with amusement.
“I’m sorry.” He said when I pulled away and crossed my arms. I ignored him but he pulled me back into his embrace.
I pouted, trying to maintain my anger but Reed's apology and gentle hug melted my heart like ice cream in the sun.
“What should I do? Kiss you better?” He offered and I widened my eyes in surprise.
He took advantage of my distraction and pecked my lips. I blushed and turned away, but he turned me back, holding me close.
"Let's watch the sunset," he said, his eyes sparkling with warmth.
I nodded, still feeling the tingle from his kiss. The sunset in Santorini was breathtaking, a kaleidoscope of colours painting the sky. We stood there, wrapped in each other's arms as we watched the sky transform into a canvas of warm hues, soft pinks and blushing peaches deepening into fiery oranges and ravishing reds.
The sun slowly dipped into the Aegean Sea, casting a golden glow across the caldera. The stars began to twinkle like diamonds scattered across the velvet expanse, and the moon, a silver crescent, rose above the rooftops, casting a gentle beam of light upon the dreamy landscape.
As we watched the sunset, I felt my heart fill with love and gratitude. This honeymoon had been a dream come true, a chance to connect with Reed, to strengthen our bond, and to create memories that would last a lifetime.
And Santorini, with its picturesque whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and winding cobblestone streets, was the perfect place for us to do that.
“I want to take you on a date tomorrow.”
I nodded as he turned me to face him. I smiled and he smirked.
“About that kiss I mentioned earlier, the offer still stands. That's if you're still interested?”
I rolled my eyes and giggled. He rose an eyebrow in question, waiting for a reply.
I nodded and his smirk grew wider. He leaned in and crashed his lips onto mine as my eyelids shut in response, kissing him back.
