CONSUMED By The Past | 18+ (Ongoing)

CHAPTER 29

MIA

Everything about this vacation feels like a dream, offering a brief escape from the constant stress back home. For the first time in what feels like forever, we're miles away from the threats that have hung over us—particularly the ones Sal made about hurting me, Maggie, and the boys. But even here in paradise, my mind occasionally wanders off. It feels like a heavy cloud of darkness looming over me.

Then there's my fear for Danté's safety that consumes me every single day and hour. It's not just his work that terrifies me—his dangerous job where he puts criminals behind bars—it's Sal that haunts me. That man is cunning and ruthless, and his silence for the past four weeks, I don't trust.

What's stopping him from taking Danté out if he can't secure Xavier's release from prison? I know Danté's badge and the respect he's earned keeps Sal at bay for now, but how long will that last?

After lounging on the warm beach for about an hour, Danté drops me off at the resort's boutique, claiming to finalize the rest of our reservations. He insists I pick up a few outfits, knowing I hadn't packed much for the surprise vacation, except swimwear, which he made sure I brought.

The moment I step inside, my senses are immediately overwhelmed by the array of vibrant clothing hanging from the racks. Each fabric seems to call out to me—tropical summer dresses, gorgeous rompers, delicate swimwear, luxurious fabrics that glide under my fingertips. My mind races, realizing I could spend hours here, lost in choices.

As if on cue, a soft voice interrupts my thoughts.

"Hello, I'm Jada," she says, her smile as warm as the sun outside. "How can I help you?"

"Hey, Jada," I reply, matching her energy. "I'm here with my fiancé and looking for a few outfits that'll have him salivating."

Jada's eyes sparkle with mischief. "Oh, I know exactly what you're looking for," she grins, motioning for me to follow her.

She wasn't exaggerating. As we move through the boutique, Jada picks out outfits that are practically made for my body. She's got a sharp eye, and I can tell she's passionate about her work. But as we wander, a small bridal section catches my eye.

"Since you're engaged, why not take a peek at our bridal collection?" Jada suggests, her voice light.

"Well... I guess there's no harm in looking," I say, curiosity tugging at me.

The dresses are nothing like the ones I've been pinning on Pinterest. They're soft, light, and breezy, perfect for a beach wedding. I can already feel the sun on my skin and the sand beneath my toes as I imagine walking down the aisle in one of these. Three of them stand out, and I find myself drawn to them, each more beautiful than the other.

We haven't even discussed a wedding date, let alone what kind of wedding we'd want, but a beach wedding feels right.

"Would you like to try one on?" Jada asks, eyes gleaming with excitement.

I hesitate. "Nah, I don't want to be a bother."

Jada tilts her head playfully. "You can't tell me there isn't one you're dying to try on."

I chuckle, giving in. "Okay, fine. Three actually caught my eye."

Jada beams as she pulls the first dress off the rail. "This is one of them, isn't it?" she asks, holding it up like a treasure.

I gasp softly, stunned. "How did you know?"

She flashes a knowing smile. "I wouldn't be a good boutique owner if I couldn't read my customers."