Chapter 11: Paradise Interrupted

The hotel’s gym smelled like eucalyptus towels and ambition. After working out, I returned to my room for a shower.

With work less hectic, I picked up my fitness routine again and got back into healthy habits.

The bathroom mirror was fogged up. I brushed back my wet hair and saw that my chest and abs were regaining their shape.

Work was exhausting, but I was still in good shape—thick hair, bright eyes, and a fit body.

Thankfully, all the socializing was handled by Derek.

At 6 a.m., I woke up refreshed, grabbed my fishing gear, and set out.

We chartered a yacht for deep-sea fishing.

The yacht’s engine roared. I put on sunglasses and stretched out on a deck chair.

Blue sea and sky, perfect weather, fresh sea breeze—I felt like I’d just escaped from hell to paradise.

Life is a journey against the current, and I’m just a traveler.

Click—click—

I opened my eyes. Parker was snapping photos of me with his phone.

“I was wondering who this handsome fisherman was—turns out it’s my Alex the Genius.”

“I’m saving this for our recruitment ads. What girl wouldn’t be tempted?”

I jumped up to grab his phone.

“Delete it. Now.”

Parker darted away like a street performer, dashing to the stern.

He looked at his phone and clicked his tongue:

“You really do look good when you’re relaxed, but your usual expression is so cold and stiff—no wonder some people don’t like you.”

I wanted to argue, but then I remembered my face in that ‘exposé’ post.

I shut my mouth.

I plopped down on the deck, laughing despite myself. The sun was warm on my skin, the water a thousand shades of blue. For the first time in years, I let myself do nothing and just breathe.