AUTHORS POV

The sky was painted in gold and rose hues when Tessa received the message.

“Meet me at Eden’s Mirage Park. Sunset. I promise this won’t hurt.”

—George.

She stared at the text for a full minute, her fingers trembling slightly, not from fear but from something else—anticipation, maybe. Curiosity. Or perhaps, despite all her internal resistance, a longing that clung to her like perfume on skin. She didn’t respond. She simply dressed.

As the car wound its way toward Eden’s Mirage Park, one of Seychelles’ lesser-known gems nestled between cliffs and hibiscus gardens, Tessa kept her window down. The breeze was sweet and damp. The scent of salt...