track of time.”
I sigh, debating whether to accept his apology or not. It did sound pretty sincere.
“ The only reason I was freaking out is because my job is very important to me, and part of my job is making sure all of this goes smoothly.”
“My job’s important to me too,” he says. “This is all new to me, and I’m still getting used to it, you know? The attention, the free stu ff, the access to have anything and anyone I want at any time. I may have been getting a little out of hand lately, but I do want to change. I really do.”
“Good. For your sake and mine, I hope you’re able to put your past behind you and focus on doing your job this week.”
“I think I’m in good hands.” He smiles his toothy grin and slips my headphones back on. He knows how to charm a girl, that’s for sure.
The next thing I know, the announcement’s being made that we’re landing soon. I open my eyes and realize that my head is resting on Austin’s shoulder. How embarrassing! I quickly sit up straight and push my seat back up. “I’m so sorry.”
He laughs. “It’s fine. I didn’t mind.”
I know my face is turning red and quickly look away. I pack my iPod back in my purse and pull out the itinerary. “You and Cassidy will be escorted to the property and I’ll be with the rest of the team behind you guys. Remember to hold her hand when you exit and put a lei around her neck when they hand one to you at the hotel.”
He chuckles.
“Yeah, yeah, I know, I said lei. Haha, very funny.”
“Oh, I like sarcastic boss lady.”
I roll my eyes . “Just follow the plan, please?”
“Yes Miss Olivia, anything you say.” He smirks.
He gets under my skin in the most irritating way, yet it sort of turns me on. What’s wrong with me?
We exit the plane and Austin pulls Cassidy close, whispering something in her ear. She nods and they act like they’re under a magic love spell. His hands rub her back, and his lips kiss her cheek, then her forehead, and finally her lips. As the photographers hover outside, her fingers intertwine with his and she looks up at him, mesmerized. I wonder if she ever had or still has feelings for him. I can’t figure out why they don’t get along. On paper they should be the perfect couple. She doesn’t seem like a bitch, but maybe she’s just a good actress.
The scene at the resort is similar and the photographers get all the shots they need. Priscilla will be happy. The staff checks us in and takes our luggage to the rooms. The time change is a little jarring; I feel like I’m starting the day all over again.
The hotel’s General M anager gives us a quick tour of the property. It’s absolutely beautiful, with any amenity available that you could dream of. I especially like the idea of a 24-hour ice cream parlor with a giant make-your-own shaved ice option. We grab a quick lunch and head to the rooms to unwind.
Austin laughs as I take my keycard out t o unlock the room next to his. “Priscilla wasn’t kidding when she said you were babysitting me.”
“That’s right. If I hear any people in your room that shouldn’t be there, then I have the right to bust in and stop the party.”
“What if I invite you to the party?” He leans his long body against the door. His aviators hang from the middle of his v-neck collar, pulling the shirt down ever so slightly to reveal a little skin. I have to mentally stop myself from checking him out.
“No parties,” I reply.
He laughs again and enters his room.
I unlock my door and find a room the size of my whole apartment wit h a gorgeous view of the ocean. This is the life! Unfortunately, I need to set up my laptop and check my email; it is a work trip after all.
After wrapping up my duties for the day, I lie down on the king-sized bed and close my eyes. The sound of the ocean outside my window lulls me to sleep, but I wake up in time to get ready for tonight’s activity. Cassidy and Austin have reservations for a private