One
Crystal Sinful All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2024 by C Sinful Writer.
Trigger Warning: This content is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain material that could be offensive to some readers, including graphic language, dangerous and sexual situations, murder, abuse, and extreme violence.
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Alora
As I stand outside, soaking in the stunning views of the beach, I can hardly believe I’m here—in this gorgeous beach house in Caicos, thanks to my best friend, Aria. The turquoise waves crash rhythmically against the shore, and I’m left alone with my thoughts while everyone else is still snoozing away. It’s a beautiful scene—almost too gorgeous for my caffeine-fueled brain to process.
Aria and I met when we were ten, both bonded by the chaos of divorce. My mom moved to New York with her new husband, and she’s now on her third marriage, having jumped ship when I was just two. Meanwhile, Aria’s dad would visit her during the holidays, and she’d spend her summers in Sicily with him. I’m pretty close with my dad and my stepmom, Laura, who’s just as stunning as she sounds. My stepbrothers? They’ve become my real brothers ever since they dove into my life.
Thinking about summers spent apart brings a frown to my face. While Aria was off enjoying the sun in Sicily, I was left to entertain myself. Thank goodness for our other sister, Stacey, who was a pro at keeping our minds busy during those long, hot months.
Just as I’m lost in thought, I hear a voice behind me that makes me jump. Mortified, I turn around and somehow manage to spill my drink all over Aria’s dad. Great. Just great.
“I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to—” I stammer, watching in horror as the liquid splashes across his shirt.
He looks down at the stain, then back up at me, a slow grin spreading across his face. “Well, I guess this is one way to wake a guy up. You really know how to make an impression.”
“Clearly, I have a talent for it,” I reply, trying to regain my composure, the heat rising in my cheeks.
He steps closer, his eyes dark with amusement. “I have to admit, I didn’t expect such a bold greeting this morning. You’ve certainly caught my attention.”
“Maybe I just wanted to see how you’d react,” I flirt, my heart racing as he leans in a little closer.
“Is that so? I can’t say I mind a little chaos,” he says, voice low and enticing. “In fact, I find it quite intriguing.”
The air between us crackles with tension. For a moment, I can’t look away. “Well, if you’re intrigued, I might have to keep this chaos going.”
He smirks. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. Just know, I’m all about getting close and personal.”
“Is that right?” I tease, my pulse quickening. “Well, maybe I should prepare myself for more than just a splash.”
“Trust me, I’m full of surprises,” he says, gaze intense. “And I can promise you, I’m definitely not afraid of a little heat.”
I bite my lip, feeling the tension between us reach a boiling point. “Then let’s see just how hot this trip can get.”
In that moment, surrounded by the sound of waves and the thrill of flirtation, I know this trip is going to be unforgettable—filled with desire, playful banter, and a whole lot of chemistry.
But what is wrong with me? That’s my best friend’s dad. Yes, he’s hot—tall, built like a Greek god, muscles that ripple when he moves, probably close to seven feet, and intimidating as hell—but still.
I glance at Mr. Ricci, his shirt now off, and I gulp, trying not to get lost in the sight of his inked arms and sculpted chest. His dark, tanned skin is hard to ignore, and when he winks at me, I’m pretty sure my cheeks turn scarlet.
Just then, Aria walks in, and I’m grateful for the distraction.
“Can you show me where everything is? I need to cook us breakfast. I made a complete ass of myself this morning—spilled coffee all over your dad. He just appeared out of nowhere and scared the crap out of me,” I chuckle, shaking my head.
Aria laughs, her eyes sparkling. “That doesn’t surprise me. He can be a little intimidating, can’t he?”
I glance back at Mr. Ricci as he pours himself coffee, wishing he’d put on a damn shirt. I focus on gathering ingredients, reminding myself that this man is off-limits. Aria is my best friend. Sleeping with her dad is a definite no-go.
Music starts to play—lively Spanish, setting the mood as I get to work in the kitchen. I try not to think about the way Mr. Ricci's voice made my stomach flip.
Once everything’s ready, I make a plate and hand it to him. He smiles—sharp jawline, that little scar on his cheek, and eyes that see right through me.
“Aria was right. This is delicious,” he says softly, taking another bite. The way he looks at me sends a jolt through my heart.
“Thanks! I’m an old-school cook. I dream of being a stay-at-home mom, running a little business selling natural healing products,” I say with a playful grin.
He nods, eyes twinkling. “Nothing wrong with that. If I had wives like that, I wouldn’t be divorced and stuck in a failing engagement.”
“Hey, you’re not too old to find that,” I tease.
“I think I might have found her,” he says, his voice softer now. “Not sure where it’s going yet. It’s still new.”
Is he messing with me? My heart races.
Before I can overthink it, Aria drops a bomb.
“I thought now would be a good time to mention—Blaine wanted me to leave a week earlier so we could spend time together before he heads back to college.”
“Really? Still with that asshole? And leaving earlier?” Mr. Ricci snaps, eyes sharp. “What about you, Alora? You’re being selfish.”
“I agree! What am I supposed to do? My ticket is paid for already!” I snap back, frustrated.
Aria raises her hands. “We’re going out tonight—maybe you’ll find a man. You haven’t dated since Levi. You let him destroy you. Alora, you’re the most beautiful woman I know—inside and out. Take this time for yourself. Dad can show you around. It could be good for you.”
Her words are persuasive, but I can feel the frustration simmering under my skin.
“I’ll take care of her, Aria,” Mr. Ricci says firmly, his tone protective. “You’re right. That little punk lost a beautiful woman. Alora, you’ll find the right man. I disapprove of Blaine, but I’ll back you—as long as he treats you right.”
His disapproval is clear, but I can see it’s all coming from a place of care, even if it feels a bit suffocating.
Let's get ready for the day.
