Gosh, it really did.” I stand, dripping wet. My sundress is soaked through and through, and thank God the sandals on my feet had straps or they’d have been lost to the deep. Oh God, no. I told him I’m keeping the honeymoon. Going to the Caribbean had been my dream. I’ve planned this trip and done the research. I was the one who read the guidebook cover to cover.” I shrug, a bit embarrassed about the force in my words. “Teacher’s pet, you know?” I’m on my second glass of mango juice when I finally spot him. He walks through the breakfast bar with a single-minded purpose, stopping at the coffee station. I soldier on in my flip-flops, my eyes on the prize. This place is a veritable gold mine of inspiration, and I can’t wait to get my notepad open again.

How to Honeymoon Alone by Olivia Hayle - Audiobook | Scribd How to Honeymoon Alone by Olivia Hayle - Audiobook | Scribd

For the next four hours, yes.” His voice sounds strained around the edges. “It was booked for two, so there’s an already-paid-for spot available.”Past Eden wouldn’t have considered traveling to a foreign country on her own. But Eden of several months ago thought her maid of honor was one of her best friends, and her fiancé was the man she was going to spend a life with, so she wasn’t exactly all-knowing, either. He shrugs. It’s a single lift of his shoulder, dark-blue eyes on mine. “Cynics come out on top, to use your expression.” Oh, that? The bartender added it. I guess it’s a sign of being on holiday, and that you’re enjoying yourself.” I slowly smile, thinking of the dinner the other night. “Want me to take a picture of you drinking it?”

How to Honeymoon Alone - Olivia Hayle

It takes me another minute to swallow my pride. Once it’s gone down, tough as it is, I head to the elevators. Hopefully, most of the guests are either at the restaurant or in beds, and not lingering in the lobby, ready to judge me for my attire. But maybe that’s the point. I’ve been complacent and sad for too long. Perhaps the thing I need is excitement and just a tinge of fear to spike the adrenaline. Yes. I don’t think the quality will be great, though.” I hold up the plastic square. I’ll have to get the film processed when I get home… if there are still places that process analog film. I stand between two bungalows that blend beautifully into the landscape. I snap a few shots of the area for my inspiration before heading to the beach.

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Aren’t all writers?” she asks, and the line goes dead. I’m still smiling when I trudge up the white sand to the pool area. Thirty minutes later, my little underwater camera is full. I climb up onto the platform, sea droplets sluicing off me. It’s easy to get used to a five-star breakfast buffet and endless time to enjoy it. I spend the next morning at my usual table—overlooking the ocean—with a plate of fresh fruit, eggs, and bacon.

How to Honeymoon Alone by Olivia Hayle | Goodreads

Sisters, I think. Here, after the death of a parent, on an all-inclusive trip paid with a vast inheritance. They could throw a few wrenches into the plot… He gives another half snort of amusement and walks out of the restaurant—tall and stoic among the hordes of happy newlyweds.

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I know how it’s done,” I say, and something sparks in his eyes. “But I’ve only tried it once or twice when I was a kid. My uncle had a cabin in the woods, next to a lake, and we’d go sometimes.” Thanks.” I play with the edge of the beach towel I’m lying on. “This trip became my lifeline after the whole non-wedding, you know? It felt like it, at least. I wanted to be as prepared as I could be. Honestly, I probably went a bit overboard.”