Uncrowned Princess

39

The sun hung high in a cloudless sky, its warmth caressing Isabella's bronzed skin as she reclined on a plush beach towel. The gentle rhythm of waves lapping at the shore provided a soothing backdrop to her quiet morning. Isabella lay on her stomach, her long, chestnut hair swept to one side, revealing the elegant curve of her neck and shoulders.

She wore a vibrant emerald bikini that complemented her olive complexion, the color reminiscent of the lush tropical foliage surrounding the secluded beach. A pair of oversized sunglasses perched on her nose, shielding her eyes from the bright sunlight as she immersed herself in her book.

Engrossed in her book—a historical romance set in medieval France that Ethan had gifted her—Isabella's manicured fingers delicately turned each page. The novel's spine crackled softly with each movement, a sound nearly lost beneath the rhythmic lapping of waves on the shore. A gentle sea breeze carried the mingled scents of saltwater, coconut sunscreen, and the frangipani blooms dotting the nearby trees.

Beside her lay a woven beach bag, from which peeked the corner of a well-worn notebook – her constant companion for jotting down thoughts and inspirations. A tall glass of iced tea, beaded with condensation, stood within easy reach, the lemon slice floating atop a testimony to the care taken in its preparation.

So absorbed was Isabella in the tale of knights and courtly love that she failed to notice the approaching figure emerging from the sea. Ethan moved with quiet grace, water streaming down his athletic form, creating rivulets that traced the contours of his muscles. Droplets clung to his eyelashes and the stubble on his chin, catching the sunlight like tiny crystals.

A shadow fell across Isabella's book, the sudden change in lighting drawing her attention upward. She blinked, momentarily dazzled by the sun haloing Ethan's silhouette. As her eyes adjusted, she took in the sight of him—wet hair tousled by the wind, a roguish grin playing on his lips, and eyes that sparkled with barely contained mischief.

"Enjoying the book?" Ethan's voice was warm and rich, carrying a hint of playfulness that made Isabella's heart skip a beat.

She nodded, a soft smile gracing her features. "It's perfect. The author really captures the—" Her words transformed into a surprised gasp as Ethan shook his head vigorously, sending a spray of cool seawater cascading over her sun-warmed skin.

"Ethan!" Isabella exclaimed, her voice a blend of shock and laughter. Goosebumps raised on her arms where the cool droplets met her heated skin. "You're getting me all wet!"

His grin widened, eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, am I? Well, we can't have you only partially wet, can we?" There was a challenge in his tone, a playful dare that sent a thrill of anticipation through Isabella.

Before she could formulate a response, Ethan swooped down. His strong arms slid beneath her, one supporting her back while the other hooked under her knees. Isabella felt the flex of his muscles against her body as he lifted her effortlessly. The sudden movement sent her heart racing, a mix of excitement and mock indignation coursing through her.

"Don't you dare!" she laughed, her arms instinctively wrapping around his neck. Despite her protests, she reveled in the feeling of security in his embrace, the scent of sea salt on his skin mingling with his familiar cologne.

Ethan's feet kicked up sand as he ran towards the water, each step jostling Isabella in his arms. The sound of their shared laughter carried across the beach, a joyous melody accompanying their path to the sea.

As they hit the water, the cool waves lapped at Ethan's legs, the temperature change eliciting a sharp intake of breath from both of them. The contrast between the warm air and cool sea sent shivers of pleasure down Isabella's spine.