After their lighthearted conversation and a peaceful lunch, Dr. Alexander leaned back in his chair, watching Bernadette with a thoughtful expression.
Dr. Alexander: "You know, Bern, I've been thinking... You've been through so much lately. Maybe it's time for you to take a real break."
Bernadette: raising an eyebrow "A break? You mean like this lunch?"
Dr. Alexander: shaking his head, smiling "No, I mean a real break. Away from all of this—the reporters, the court cases, the stress. Somewhere you can truly relax and recharge."
Bernadette: curious "And where exactly would that be?"
Dr. Alexander reached into his pocket and pulled out two plane tickets, placing them on the table in front of her. Bernadette's eyes widened as she read the destination: Maldives.
Bernadette: surprised "The Maldives? Are you serious, Alex?"
Dr. Alexander: nodding " I've already arranged everything. A private villa, secluded beaches, no reporters, no interruptions. Just you, me, and the ocean. It's the perfect place for you to unwind and forget about everything for a while."
Bernadette stared at the tickets, her mind racing. It had been so long since she had even considered taking a vacation, let alone going somewhere as beautiful as the Maldives. The idea was both exhilarating and daunting.
Bernadette: hesitant "I don't know, Alex... I mean, with everything going on, can I really just leave?"
Dr. Alexander: gently "That's exactly why you need to leave, Bernadette. You need a break from all of this. You deserve some time to just breathe and focus on yourself. Trust me, a change of scenery will do you a world of good... we wiull be back before the scheduled hearing by that you have rechrged..."
She looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity and concern there. She knew he was right. She had been running on empty for too long, and maybe a break was exactly what she needed to clear her mind and regain her strength.
Bernadette: smiling softly "When do we leave?"
Dr. Alexander: grinning "Tomorrow morning. I've already taken care of all the arrangements. All you need to do is pack a bag."
Bernadette: laughing lightly "You really thought of everything, didn't you?"
Dr. Alexander: playfully "Well, I knew you'd need some convincing. And I'm very persuasive."
They both laughed, and for the first time in a long time, Bernadette felt a genuine sense of excitement bubbling up inside her. The Maldives—a place where she could escape from her troubles, if only for a little while.
Bernadette: grinning "Alright, Dr. Alexander. Let's go to the Maldives."
Dr. Alexander: smiling warmly "That's the spirit, Bern. It's time for you to relax and enjoy life again."
As they left the restaurant, Bernadette felt a renewed sense of hope. She knew there were still battles to be fought and challenges ahead, but for now, she would allow herself this moment of respite. With Dr. Alexander by her side, she felt ready to embrace whatever came next.
After a long flight and a short seaplane ride, Dr. Alexander and Bernadette finally arrived in the Maldives. As they stepped off the seaplane onto a wooden dock, Bernadette took a deep breath, letting the warm, salty breeze wash over her. The turquoise waters stretched out as far as the eye could see, shimmering under the bright sun. The gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore, combined with the rustling of the palm trees, created a soothing symphony.
YOU ARE READING
Embers of Betrayal
AléatoireBernadette Lacuesta seemed to have it all-a beautiful home, a successful husband, and a life most would envy. With her graceful elegance and a timeless sense of style, she was the picture of a perfect wife, standing by the side of Maxim Cuevas, a co...
