TODAY, OUR AMAZING TEAM MEMBER, AUTHOR LORRAINE CAREY, IS SHARING CHAPTER 2 OF HER NOVEL, 'NIGHT MISTRESS OF PARADISE PALMS' #RWRTeamBlog #ReadWriteRepeat
- Jun 15
- 10 min read
Chapter 2
Tessa Malone opted not to join her husband, Joe, on a fishing charter he’d booked earlier this morning. She’d decided to get some rest and relax by the pool. It was only the second day after their big Italian wedding, and she relished the thought of some much-needed peace.
After applying her sunscreen lavishly over her olive skin, she threw on her cover-up, ready to head downstairs. She noticed there were only two other guests out by the pool as she perused the vast selection of white wicker loungers. I so need this. I’m glad Joe understood. It’s better if he goes alone rather than have me complaining the whole time. She removed her white linen cover-up and selected a lounger at the far end of the pool. The morning sun was out, and it was already a balmy eighty degrees for September. Her eyes were diverted over to the Trade Winds Tiki Bar that wouldn’t open until 11 a.m. An icy Mimosa would hit the spot right now. Her mouth watered at the thought. She figured Joe wouldn’t be back until around 2 or 3 pm, so she had plenty of time all to herself.
After a brief nap, she felt hot and swam a few laps in the pool. As she ascended the steps of the pool, she couldn’t help noticing a few glares coming from an elderly couple. She could see the maids with their carts heading toward their upstairs room. How wonderful it was not to have to make the bed this morning, she mused. She noticed the bar was now open, and she was beyond thirsty. A tall, good-looking young man was ready to take her order. “Morning, Ma’am. I’m your waiter, Dirk Benson. Hope you are enjoying your stay.”
“Well… it’s been our second day here, and I’m loving it. Thank you. I think I’ll start with a Mimosa. I hear that’s the drink of choice on the island.”
“Good call,” Dirk said as he handed Tessa the lunch menu. “Actually, our Rum Runners are the best in the Caribbean. You here alone?”
“No. I’m here on my honeymoon. My husband’s out on a fishing charter today.”
“And he left you here?” Dirk shook his head.
“I’m not exactly the fishing type—besides, I’d rather enjoy the quiet for a change. It’s a breath of fresh air coming from the crowded streets of New York,” Tessa commented as she looked over the menu.
“I can understand. This place is known for its calm and quiet during the daytime. The islanders like to party once the sun sets .”
“So, I’ve heard. I know the stories about these island parties. I couldn’t hold up too long last night at the beach bash. I went up early to bed, leaving poor Joe to himself. I guess our traditional Italian wedding is finally taking its toll on me.
“Ah, Italian… I get it. I’ve been to a few of those. Seems they last a few days,” Dirk declared as he handed her the frosty Mimosa. Now, what about a snack? He pushed a strand of sandy blond hair behind his ear.”
Della gazed up at him, thinking how much he looked like a typical California surfer dude, minus his thick British accent. “I think I’ll try the Conch Fritters and a side salad. Never had them before.”
“Another good choice! It’s a Cayman favorite.”
Tessa sipped her icy drink and noticed Della Marquez, the Inn manager, approaching. “Good morning. I hope things are to your liking.”
“Things are just fine. You have a beautiful place here.”
“Thank you. I just came to let you know the snorkeling equipment your husband ordered will be ready this afternoon. Did you need to reserve a guide as well?”
“No… no. That won’t be necessary. We’re good. We won’t be snorkeling till later this evening. My husband won’t be back from his charter till late this afternoon.”
“Well, I would advise you to be careful. We don’t recommend going out too late. I know the reef is more visible during the day, but it does hold its enchantment at night. Just pop in the office when you’re ready for your things. And enjoy your lunch. Dirk will take good care of you.” Della winked at Dirk before she turned away.
Tessa watched the young manager walk away. She’s awfully young to own this inn—must have been an inheritance. Tessa admired Della’s long, dark, wavy hair and golden tan. Guess living on the beach had its
advantages.
She glanced over to notice the couple, who were at the pool earlier, were now seated at the bar next to her. The portly, red-headed woman spoke up. “We missed you last night at the beach bash. We’d hope to get to know you a bit better. “I’m Laura Branson, and this is my husband, Todd. We’re here from Florida.”
“Nice to meet you. I’m Tessa Malone, from New York.”
“You spending the day all alone?” Laura inquired.
“Yes. Joe, my husband, is on a fishing charter.”
“Hmm, how convenient,” Laura murmured under her breath.
Todd shook his finger at his wife while giving her a disapproving look, hoping to quell her unnecessary judgment. He knew she wasn’t one to hold things back. “Seems your hubby was out there busting a few moves with a young blonde, then both of them just disappeared.”
Tessa gave her a glaring look. “What... what do you mean?”
“I’ll let you figure this one out, my dear. Maybe you need to take it up with your husband.”
Tessa suddenly lost her appetite and asked for a ‘to go’ box and headed up to her room. She’d bring this up with Joe when he got back. This isn’t like my Joe, she reasoned. Maybe this woman was looking for trouble? Maybe she’d had a few too many or possibly a local slut looking for a quick fuck?
***
Joe was taking a lunch break as he sat on the back deck of the charter boat. He was proud of himself for snagging two large Grouper and a good-sized Snapper. He wasn’t too proud of what had transpired at the beach bash the night before. It was so out of character for him. Maybe it was the drinks? He tried to reason. I mean, she was flat-out coming onto me—and that body! These local girls are hot! Who could resist? It was only a one-night fling. Tessa will never have to find out—ever.
Joe finished his sandwich and beer, ready for one last stop on the trip before heading back. He’d have the crew take pictures of his prized catch to show off to his buddies back home.
***
Tessa finished her lunch and then took a long shower. She ordered another cocktail from the bar and waited for Joe to return.
Dirk had delivered her drink to her room. He noticed the forlorn look on Tessa’s face. “You all right, Ma’am?”
Tessa took the drink and handed him a ten. “Mind if I ask you something personal?”
“Well... it depends, but I’ll try my best, Miss Tessa.”
“Were you on duty last night for the bash?”
“I was, indeed. Why do you ask?” He slipped the ten that Tessa handed to him into his pocket.
“I need to know if you saw my husband with a young woman, a blonde.”
Dirk turned his head away. “There were lots of young ladies there last night—not guests, but mainly locals who came to hear the band.”
“Please answer my question,” Tessa demanded. “I really need to know.”
“I did see your husband dancing with a petite blonde woman, and then never saw them after that.”
Tessa shook her head in disgust. “Damn island parties!”
“I’m sorry, Ma’am. It doesn’t mean anything. This island does have its reputation, as I told you. Flirting can be just an innocent thing. Seems like 2004 is going to live up to its reputation of being the party island of
the entire Caribbean.”
“Thank you for being honest. I’ll check into this further. Now don’t work too hard.”
Dirk stopped at the door and turned around. “Let me know if you need anything else. Please take care of yourself and try to enjoy your stay.”
Tessa finished her drink while she waited for Joe. She couldn’t shake the thoughts that crowded her brain. She lay on the bed, letting herself sink deep into the fluffy tropical-printed comforter, rehearsing the words she’d say to him.
She happened to glance out the side window as she caught sight of Joe. The sound of the click of the door made her heart race. He bounded in with a huge grin on his face. “Hey, baby, your man did well today!”
Tessa glared right back at him, still lying on the bed in her white hotel robe. “Was it better than the bash last night?”
“Of course, it was. I caught two Grouper and a huge Snapper!”
“No young blondes to make out with on the boat?” Tessa approached Joe with her empty glass in hand.
“What the hell is that supposed to mean?”
“You know damn well! I had to hear it from one of the guests and had it confirmed with the bartender.”
“Like you’re going to believe a drunken guest and a bartender?
Nothing happened! I had a few too many and ended up dancing with a local gal. That’s all, nothing more.”
“They claim you both disappeared after a time. I’m not stupid, Joe! For God’s sake, this is our honeymoon!”
Joe eased Tessa down on the bed. “Listen, I followed her to her car because it turns out she’s a realtor here on the island, and she wanted to give me her card. I’ve been thinking about maybe us investing in a small beach property here.”
“And you expect me to buy this?”
“It’s the truth. You know I’ve managed to save a lot with my new promotion at the dealership. It would be an investment.”
Tessa looked deep into his dark brown eyes; his thick curly hair was still damp. As angry as she was, she couldn’t deny the fact that he was the hottest-looking man she’d ever laid her eyes on. Maybe that woman did come onto him? I’ve been warned about the way these local women come onto men here. “Why do I believe this?”
“Cuz, baby, it’s true! It’s our future I’m thinking about.” He threw off his shirt and kissed her passionately from her neck down to where her sweet spot ached for more.
Time flew by quickly, and at 5 p.m., Tessa reminded Joe of their snorkel adventure and to pick up the equipment at the office. She figured a night swim might just be the ticket to take her mind off things.
Joe stopped before heading out the door. “Wear that red bikini you brought. I’m feeling lucky tonight, baby. What happens at the reef, will stay at the reef.”
Tessa still had her doubts, but wasn’t going to let this ruin her week. She’d be back at work at the small dress shop she managed in Manhattan before she knew it. She loved Joe and planned to have a family of her own soon. She wanted the whole fairy tale, not a man she couldn’t trust.
Joe found Della just getting ready to lock up the office. “Oh, I’m so glad to catch you in time. I wanted to warn you about a possible storm coming in tonight. It’s not a hurricane, but we still need to be careful. It will hopefully pass. The lightning here is intense.”
“Thank you, Miss Marquez. Tessa and I are very good swimmers. We will be careful, as you say.” Joe picked up the snorkel gear and walked out with Della.
“You know, I have to say, you have a stunning new wife there. You two will make beautiful babies. I wish you a long and happy marriage.”
Joe thanked Della and headed upstairs. He glanced out at the sea from the upstairs balcony at the turquoise waters. Thoughts of the night before with Sheila Maxwell played tricks on his mind and body. He could still feel her warm kisses on his lips and her firm bosom, which he had enjoyed caressing. He quickly shook off those feelings and was ready for a romantic night of snorkeling and a late dinner with his new wife.
Joe checked the weather report, and the storm was not due to hit until the early hours of the morning. They walked hand in hand toward the shore. It was now nearing 6 p.m., and the sun would soon set. There were a handful of tourists still out by the pool, yet most had gone in to get ready for another night of partying on the island.
After checking their gear, they swam out toward the reef. They’d make good use of their underwater flashlights. It was 150 yards to the reef. Tessa and Joe held hands for the first ten minutes, but by the time
they reached the reef, they were separated and mesmerized by the beauty of the tropical fish. Tessa came up for air a few times to clear her mask before plunging back into the water to get a better glimpse of what appeared to be a cluster of Angelfish. She didn’t see Joe anywhere. She swam up and down the area with no sight of him. She heard thunder booming in the distance and attempted to surface when she could feel something pushing her toward the bottom of the reef. She looked down but could only see a thick wall of sand swirling around her. A powerful force threw her body into the sharp coral of the reef. It felt as if she was stung by a thousand lightning rods. “Joe! Joe!” she cried. It wasn’t long before her body gave out as she sank to the bottom of the reef.
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BIO
Lorraine Carey is not only a paranormal enthusiast but has had many unexplained events in her lifetime and has been inspired by these events to use as a focal point in her fiction novels. One of her YA Novels won a Silver Award from Reader’s Favorite and was a finalist in the Wind Dancer Film Contest. As of current, she has fourteen published novels, three being co-authored, and has works included in a recent Anthology. Her genres mainly consist of the paranormal, but also include thrillers, romance, and erotica. As a veteran teacher, Lorraine began to write for Young Adults with the hopes of inspiring young readers. Currently residing in Florida, her retirement has given her more time to write when the spirits are willing.
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COMING SOON: On Wednesday 17th June, we are thrilled to welcome our guest author, Helen Bright, who is sharing Chapter 5 of her novel, 'The Runaway and The Russian'.
Wow, an exciting romance, a wonderful location, great story.