~Aiden's POV~
It's been a week already since our closed deal with the Paris Investors. Our new anti-aging serum is already a record breaker.
As I stood at the entrance of our bedroom, my eyes were fixed on the breathtaking sight before me. Annabel sat at her Dressing table, the soft glow from the side lamp, casting a golden hue on her skin as she applied her night skincare routine.
Her hands slowly and calmly as she gently moisturizes her skin. Her hair styled in a loose updo—just the way I liked it. The light reflected off her glossy lips, making them shimmer.
Oouf— Annabel is a goddess on earth.
And yet…Guilt curled around my chest like a tightened rope. The thought of Sarah slipped in, unwelcome and suffocating.
How could I have betrayed her?
Annabel wasn't just beautiful—she was kind, intentional and peaceful. The way she loved so selflessly, was unlike anything I had ever known.
A sharp ache hit my ribs.
It's been a week since I got the text and numerous calls from Sarah. I ignored every single one. What happened that night was a mistake and should remain that way. I want no part of her, not now, not ever.
Right now, I want to focus on my marriage and be intentional about my wife.
I forced a breath and shook off the thoughts as I stepped forward.
"Close your eyes", I said to her, gaining her attention. My voice playful yet firm.
"Okayyyy…" she paused, lowering her hands as she turned to me with a curious smile."What's going on?"
I chuckled "Just trust me. Close your eyes and hold out your hands".
She laughed but obeyed, stretching out her hands with an expectant grin. God, she was beautiful.
Carefully I placed the envelope on her palms.
"Open your eyes now", I whispered.
As she opened the envelope, she glanced up at me, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "What's this, baby?
I smirked. "See for yourself".
Her eyes glanced through the words in gold lettering. Then, she gasped.
Santorini, Greece.
"Aiden…" her voice was barely a whisper.
"A vacation", I said. Taking her hands.
"Just the two of us. No work, no distraction— just you and me, in one of the most beautiful places in the world".
For the first time in a long time, I saw something in her eyes— pure, unfiltered excitement.
"Thank you Aiden", she whispered.
Maybe, just maybe this is what we need for a fresh start.
"Tomorrow, the maids can help you pack and get ready for the trip". I said, watching her reaction slowly."We leave tomorrow night, we'll be staying at the famous Port Royal Villa and Spa"
She gasped, her eyes widened. "Aiden… you serious?"
I smirked "Of course I am. You will be there tomorrow night…
A breathless laugh escaped her lips as she stared at me in disbelief.
"Sweet dreams love". I murmured. I planted a lingering kiss on her lips as I retreated to bed.
***
~Annabel's POV~
The excitement in me was unmatched. All through the journey from California to Greece, I filmed the whole trip to make reels for my Instagram. It was about to be a memorable weekend.
As I stepped onto the grounds of Port Royal Villa, it felt like I just walked into paradise.
"Aiden this place is amazing" I screamed.
"I knew you would love it", he smirked. "Wait till you get inside our suite, it's mind-blowing". He took my hands as we walked into the bedroom.
My eyes glanced through the room, I twirled and landed on the King-sized bed. "I am never leaving this place".
I stepped onto the terrace, the sea breeze kissed my skin.. I drew in some air with a long breath. "Hmmm… it smells like lavender and sea salt. This— this is Paradise".
Aiden stepped behind me, his hands wrapped slowly around my waist as he whispered, "So tell me… Mrs Kings, do you love it?"
I tilted my head gently, My lips curving into a smile. "It's magical. It's perfect".
His chuckle was soft and warm "I knew you would love it here".His fingers trailed down my arms, sending shivers along my skin. "Not as perfect as you," he whispered.
I turned in his embrace, my hands resting on his chest. "I don't even know what to say anymore".
His fingers traced small circles on my back, "you don't have to say anything. Just enjoy".
"But… one more thing. I need to film this". I said.
He groaned playfully, " Annabel—"
"Just one more clip!" I laughed, slipping out of his arms. "This place is too perfect not to share".
Shaking his head, he smirked. "Fine. But after that, you're all mine".
***
Aiden had planned a romantic dinner date for us at one of the finest restaurants in Santorini.
The drive to the restaurant was nothing short of mesmerizing. The restaurant sat high on a cliffside, offering a view of the Aegean Sea.
Aiden's hand rested on my lower back as we walked inside.
"Do you like it?" he asked.
I turned to him with a glimpse and said "I can't believe you planned this all by yourself".
His lips curved into a knowing smile. "Only the best for you, Love".
Our table was a private table set at the very best section of the restaurant. I could see how the sunset painted the sky, reflecting off our wine glasses as we talked and laughed. It was effortless like we were rediscovering each other.
It felt perfect, until Aiden's phone started vibrating.
At first he ignored it but then it buzzed again and again.
I paused and raised my head. "Do you need to get it?", I asked.
He shrugged, "No… it can wait"
But it certainly didn't. It buzzed again.
"Aiden, just take it" I urged softly. "It's clearly important".
His hesitation lingered for a moment then he excused himself to a quiet corner. " I will be right back", dropping his napkin on the table.
I turned back to my plate, diving into the delicious meal before me. Aiden was so present tonight— whoever the caller was, had just interrupted a blissful night.
Minutes later, he returned.
Immediately he sat down, I could see the bead of sweat on his brows and tremor on his lips. Something is not right.
His fingers curled around his wine glass, His posture no longer relaxed but now rigid.
"Aiden, what's wrong?" I whispered, placing my left hand on the table to reach his.
He hesitated, for a few seconds. Then with a forced smile, he shook his head and said "Nothing, Love. It's just work".
Liar.
I knew him too well.
Whatever it was, just disrupted our night and he is also refusing to tell me.