“Good. Now tell me you love me, so I can go out there and try to be a better brother.”
“I love you.” I laugh.
“Now tell me you’re all mine, so I can learn to be a good husband.”
“Husband? When did you propose?” I laugh, twisting to look up at him to find he is watching me with a smile in his eyes.
“I didn’t, but now that I can see how hopeful you are, I know it’s something you want just as much as me.” He pecks my lips and begins walking backwards. “Cal and Lia Scott.” He tilts his head thoughtfully, satisfied. “I’m going to marry you down on the beach with sand in your hair and salt in our lungs.”
“Is that your proposal?” I laugh, crossing my arms over my chest.
“I’ve never been overly traditional, so I don’t intend to propose. Would me getting down on one knee and asking make my love for you any more meaningful?” His lips twitch with a smirk, but he doesn’t unleash it fully.
I shake my head. No, it wouldn’t. I don't need to be asked. I don't need to see him on his knees. I don't even need a ring or the paper to prove anything as chemical as what we have. Both physically and mentally, we fused at some point, and nothing could ever diminish that, no matter what. We have never been conventional, and starting now would mock who we are.
“It’s perfectly imperfect.” He is perfectly imperfect.
“Only you.” He sighs heavily, a perplexed but satisfied look on his handsome face.
“Only me what?”
“Only you could ever give me exactly what I need, when I had no idea I needed it.”
“Well, Ineedto be a Scott, so you better get to work on that.” I wink before I grab up the glasses and sashay towards him. He is grinning like mad, watching me with hungry eyes as I peck his cheek. “Pronto,” I whisper, and leave him standing in the villa. Stalin and Isabella are both chatting quietly when I meet them outside. “Here you go. It’s just infused water.”
“Thanks.” Isabella speaks first, but Stalin stands to take the glasses and offers her one before returning to his seat.
“Anyone fancy a walk into town, or maybe we can hit the beach? I still need to grab some things off the boat,” Callan says, joining us.
“The beach, but I just got up here!” Isabella exclaims and droops in her chair.
“It’s an easy walk down,” I tell her, “plus, it’s not too bad today. I’ve not been down there for a little while. It would be nice to enjoy it with someone.” I look at her hopefully. “We can take a walk into town though, if you prefer?”
“Do you mind? My legs are like jelly still.” She blushes, and we all laugh.
“No, that's fine. Once you’ve hydratedand had a rest, we can take a walk down into the village, and these two can go to the beach.”
“That suits me,” Stalin adds, taking a sip of his water then encouraging Isabella to drink.
“Yeah, sure,” Callan mutters.
Isabella looks at him quizzically. “I’m not going to steal her away,” she jokes.
“I know, but I just got her back. I don't much fancy letting her go for a while.”
“We’ll be an hour tops,” I tell him, secretly happy he is irritated about us being separated for a short time. “Besides, it will be nice to have some girl time,” I admit. Isabella smiles at me, and Callan relaxes, seeing how cheerful his sister is.
“Okay, we can have lunch when you get back,” Callan replies. It’s the perfect excuse for Isabella and me to get to know each other. After I sort my lenses out, we head down into the town, and I show her around a little. It’s fairly quiet, and not many people take much notice of us. We browse a few stalls and pick some food for lunch. She even asks about coming into town again for coffee, and I take it as a good sign.
“That would be great. There isn't much going on. It’s the calmest place on earth, well for me it is, anyway.” I laugh. “I’ll have to show you my jewellery when we get back. I’ve been making some to keep busy,” I say brightly. I’m super proud of myself, and it shows in my voice.
“Really, wow, I’d love that. You seem so accomplished and well-travelled. I don’t even know if I have any talents,” she admits doubtfully.
“What do you mean?” I ask as we make our way back to the villa.
“I’ve been gone for so long. I was never given an opportunity to even try to learn anything. I wouldn't know where to start.” I’m engulfed in guilt. How could I even forget how deprived she has been? I feel awful and really stupid for pressing further.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t think.” I flush with embarrassment.