Arranged Marriage: The Lost Bet

Chapter Eight

Arianna hadn't spoken to Lucas since Christmas and had resolved never to call him again. She still didn't understand why he was searching for her, especially since he didn't love her. She chuckled at the thought; Lucas Carter was incapable of love. His face was constantly in the news, always seen with a new woman. Arianna knew he wasn't really affected by her absence.

"Arianna, let's go to the beach today! We've been so busy since Christmas, and I need some girl time," Madison said, feeling cooped up with the two couples downstairs.

Arianna laughed, recognizing her cousin's restlessness. "Sounds perfect! I'll go change." She tossed aside her comforter and changed into a red bikini, shorts, and a strapless white top.

Once back in her room, she grabbed her tanning lotion and beach bag before following Madison downstairs.

"Daddy, Madison and I are heading to the beach!" Arianna called into the living room.

"We'll meet you there later, girls. Have fun!" Mike replied. After saying their goodbyes, Arianna and Madison left the house and walked to the beach.

"Ah, Ari, this is the life! Sunbathing by the ocean with cocktails. Now we just need two sexy men," Madison said.

Arianna laughed, sipping her Strawberry Margarita. "I agree! Florida definitely has its perks—lots of attractive guys here."

"Oh, act natural! There's a hot guy at 9 o'clock, and he hasn't taken his eyes off you since we arrived!" Madison said, glancing over nervously.

Arianna pretended to look around and spotted the tall, dark, and gorgeous man. "Oh my God, Ari! They're walking over here! Do I look okay?"

Arianna chuckled and placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "Madison, you look stunning. Just relax!"

"Afternoon, ladies. Mind if my friend and I join you?" the tall, dark, and dangerously handsome man asked Arianna, flashing a smile at Madison.

"Of course! I'm Arianna, and this is my cousin, Madison," she replied.

"Nice to meet you both," he said, grinning down at Arianna. "I'm Darren, and this guy here," he added, giving his friend a playful slap on the shoulder, "is Chris."

Arianna bit her lip as she glanced at Chris. He hadn't taken his eyes off Madison since they approached, and she was pretty sure she saw him start to drool.

"Nice to meet you, Darren," Arianna said, patting the spot next to her. He settled in, and her cheeks flushed as she caught herself staring at his impressive, hairless chest. Darren was stunning. His short, spiked black hair was exactly the kind she imagined running her fingers through. His dark chocolate brown eyes held an intense gaze, and his slightly crooked nose and strong jawline gave him a rugged charm.

Her eyes traveled down his broad shoulders, over his large arms, and finally to his chiseled eight-pack. This man was a god. If he looked this good in clothes, she could only imagine how incredible he would look without them.

"So, Arianna, are you visiting?" Darren asked, breaking her from her thoughts.

"No, my dad and I moved here from California about ten months ago. What about you?" she replied, trying to sound casual.

"I've lived here all my life. Are you single?" he asked, leaning closer.

"Depends," Arianna said with a teasing smirk, glancing up at him. Even sitting down, he towered over her.

"Depends on what?" Darren's curiosity was piqued, and the playful glint in his eyes made her heart race.

"On if you are single," Arianna replied, winking at the sexy man sitting next to her.