A Fresh Start

Chapter 12

oOoOo

Ranger's POV

As agreed, after Happy Hour, we decided to have a light dinner together, in the dining room, here in the hotel, rather than in a restaurant elsewhere. I was enjoying her company immensely. There was something about her that more than just intrigued me. I felt at ease with her, she was friendly and amicable, pleasant. There was no pretence about her either. Me, the master of the one word answer type of guy, known for being conservative with my words, here I was having an open conversation with someone I barely knew. But I felt at ease with her. She was easy to talk to, disarming in the nicest kind of way. This is quite a refreshing experience for me.

Was it a date? Stephanie suggested we meet for the Happy Hour with maybe a light meal afterwards. I think calling it a date is possibly a bit premature, but it felt like a date. It was more for companionship. I wouldn't normally go to a Happy Hour session, certainly not on my own. Perhaps I was over-analysing this but since it was beyond my usual experiences, simple as it is, I was enjoying this. Pure and simple, she was good company.

The dining room looked inviting. The candlelit tables created an ambient atmosphere which was also calm and relaxing. It looked quite different from the breakfast set up. The waiter led us to our table, in a quiet spot, before asking if we would like to look at the wine list. I offered to get some wine but she politely declined, preferring water during the meal. I was happy with that.

"They've put more palms and greenery in and around the tables. How interesting. It no longer resembles where we have breakfast. Very clever. Nice touch, it looks quite romantic," she nodded approvingly.

I like the way she said "we". To think that we only know of each other barely two days, but it feels longer. Romantic. Yes, I had thought that too, but didn't dare to admit it. I decided to discuss our options and possible plans for tomorrow. I had made arrangements to acquire the boat, with a crew aboard, so we could just enjoy ourselves together and relax.

From the à la carte menu, Stephanie chose the mango chicken salad with avocado, and I chose the chef's salad with smoked salmon.

"I noticed that you liked the idea of snorkelling, and jet skiing. I have access to a boat, and I thought we could do a bit of both with a tasty picnic lunch. Are you free tomorrow for a day out on the water?"

She smiled. "I like the idea of that. Coincidentally, I happen to be free tomorrow."

"I have to ask, are you okay being on the open water? Do you get sea sick, perhaps?"

"I'm okay on a boat. I used to go fishing with my Dad, until my mother thought it was inappropriate," the big eye roll made me laugh. She smacked my arm for laughing, in a playful way. It was cute. "We used to snorkel at one of the lakes in summer, but it was not clear like it would be here in the ocean. We never saw any fish but it was great fun when we were kids. Sometimes we'd take our snorkel, fins and mask to the local pool, or Point Pleasant. But this will be so exciting. The real deal."

I liked her enthusiasm. It was genuine and unaffected.

"Alright then. We could explore the bay, Bay of Biscayne, or even travel down to the Keys, but that would be a longer day, since it's further away, but definitely a worthwhile day trip. I would recommend that might be worth a separate excursion, if you prefer."

She smiled as she pushed her plate aside, sipping some water. "I enjoyed that, nice and tangy, and I love mango! Mm-mm." She looked very pleased and satisfied. I grinned at her as she nibbled on one of the crispy spiced tortilla triangles that accompanied her meal.

"To be honest, I don't mind a day trip. I have all the time in the world. I just hope I am not interfering with any of your plans," she remarked tentatively. I smiled replying without thinking, "I am all yours," which earned me a coy smile, with her beautiful blue eyes radiant. Now, where did that come from? Meh. But it did have a nice feel to it.

"One thing I wanted to suggest which isn't mentioned in any of the brochures you selected, perhaps you'd like to try parasailing?"

"Parasailing? Omigod! Like floating in the air, behind a boat, floating above the water with a parachute thingy? Oh yes! I'd love that for sure. But snorkelling first. I want to see coral reefs and colourful fish. What a great idea!" She gushed excitedly, as her eyes lit up with that suggestion, sparkling with delight.

"Okay. That's something you will love, just a bit, I think. You like to fly?" I teased. Her exuberant smile was enough to tell me the answer as she nodded in excitement. A definite yes.

We ordered dessert and coffee while considering the other options. I was going to pass on dessert, as I often do, but her curious and expectant look changed my mind. She ordered a tiramisu and I chose my nearly favourite, a crème caramel, which was similar to flan de leche. "Once you've tasted my mother's flan de leche, or the one my Abuela makes, this is close but there's no substitute," I explained, smiling at the memories. I caught her smiling at my reminiscences. Back on track, Manoso.

"So, snorkelling it is. Would you like to explore a shipwreck, or perhaps the mangroves?"

"Oh no, mangroves strike me as being far too creepy, you never know what's lurking in there." She shuddered bodily. "Pass on the shipwreck. I'm sure there's lots to see with those. However, I really like the idea of reef snorkelling more though, with crystal clear waters."

"The weather looks ideal for a day on the water…"

But she wasn't listening. I stopped as she moaned with her first bite of the tiramisu. Dios Mio. Her eyes closed, practically rolling to the back of her head in ecstasy. I found myself quite affected. I did not see that coming. What this woman does to me already! One day I'd like to make her feel that good from my ministrations. Dios! She has me horny just from one delicious mouthful of her dessert!

"Oops. Sorry. This is so decadent and divine. They must have a genuine Italian chef here, because this is so authentic. My Nonna used to make this." She sighed momentarily with that memory, then ate some more before giving me a considered look as she sipped her coffee, which seemed to enhance the flavours even more. Another hum.

"Let's pass on the jet skiing for now. After a snorkelling adventure, parasailing goes to the top of my list. It has been on my bucket list for a long time, after snorkelling on a coral reef."

"Well then. We have a full day of adventure ahead of us. No rush. Tomorrow it will be snorkelling. If the conditions stay like they forecast, we might be able to do both, but I can't promise that. I suggest we leave after breakfast. All you will need is your swim suit, a cover over, sunglasses and a hat. I have already confirmed the picnic lunch and a boat. All the snorkelling is bound to give you an appetite. Don't worry about a beach towel or sunscreen, that's all on board, just like the diving gear. But you might want to bring a light jacket, for later."

"That sounds wonderful. I am really looking forward to all that. Thank you for making time to do this."

"De nada, Babe. It's been a while for me, too. It's a great way to unwind and decompress from a busy lifestyle. We can just enjoy and relax. Besides, the bonus is that it's midweek, and before peak season, so it won't be like Boat City full of tourists and locals."

"I'll pack a bag tonight so I'm ready to go after breakfast. This has been such a lovely evening, Carlos. I have enjoyed your company and I'm really looking forward to tomorrow. Thank you so much. Time for bed for this girl. I'll see you at breakfast."

She smiled and stood up as I pulled out her chair which earned me a gorgeous extra blue-eyed smile for my chivalry. I left a substantial tip on our table. She insisted on paying for her own meal, booking it to her room. "You are already covering so many expenses, and I do appreciate it. Thanks." I nodded.

I was up early for my run, feeling excited for the adventure I had planned for my special guest. After our morning routines, we joined each other for breakfast, sharing a table this time. She looked refreshed and ready to tantalise her appetite. Forgoing any pastries, she chose a selection of tropical fruits, which I did the same. For her cooked breakfast, she opted for Eggs Benedict, which was the special of the day, perfectly poached eggs, with Canadian bacon, and some asparagus on toasted rye. Instead of the bacon, I opted for smoked salmon with baby spinach. She ate heartily, approving her choice, enjoying the chef-made Hollandaise sauce as she wiped the last of her toast from her plate through the tangy sauce. Orange juice and coffee to finish off. She was very satisfied, humming and smiling.

I didn't realise how nice it was to have breakfast together with someone. I usually sit alone in my penthouse apartment with a healthy Ella-made breakfast. I have eaten with the men, but this was so nice. Her companionship was growing on me. Have I been missing out?

As she finished her second coffee, I turned to face her and grinned.

"What? Oh no. Do I have egg on my face? My chin?" she asked half mortified, quickly grabbing her serviette to check and wipe.

I couldn't hide the smile. "No. You're fine. I have a surprise for you."

"For me? But you're doing so much for me already."

"Remember our discussion and plans last night, over dinner, for today?"

"Ye-es." Cute, making a two syllable response from a single syllable word. However, she was curious.

"Since we will be travelling quite some distance to get to our destination for snorkelling, I also made a booking for parasailing after lunch, since the weather is most favourable."

Much to my surprise, she squealed in delight and hugged me.

"Omigod! Omigod! You did? How fantastic! I – oops. I'm sorry. I got a bit carried away there. But, I can't believe it. This is going to be the best day of my life!"

"It's okay. I don't often get hugs, and it was nice."

"Omigod. I could kiss you!" Then she blushed, not intending to have said that out loud as she covered her mouth.

She took a deep breath and composed herself. "I'm sorry. I got a bit carried away with myself." I chuckled at her confession, still blushing. She was genuinely embarrassed and worried she might have overstepped the mark. "Forgive me, please?"

"Babe. You do not need to apologise. Let's finish our coffee and then we'll meet in the lobby at 7:30, ready to go."

She released a breath and nodded, "Deal." This time, before I could, she left a nice tip for our regular waitress.

Stephanie was already waiting in the lobby, smiling, with just a single carry bag with all her things. She was excited and leaped up to greet me, saluting in a cheeky way. "Ready to go, Captain Carlos."

I was momentarily taken aback, but she did recognise my minuscule reaction, raising her eyebrows with a knowing grin as she bit her bottom lip. Dios. Without even trying, she is very sexy, the full package. How the hell did she know? Ah. Of course. It was just an expression. I think I got caught. TMI. She's good, but didn't say anything further. However, I could tell she was filing that titbit away, just smiling as we walked to the valet station.

I could tell she was looking for the Porsche turbo, but it wasn't there. Because of the drive across the scenic Overseas Highway and island hopping along from Key Largo to get to Key West, I figured she would enjoy the view better from my SUV, the Porsche Cayenne. I grinned as the valet opened the passenger door. The deadpan look she gave me was hilarious! I smiled one of my 100 watt smiles as I grabbed her bag to stow in the back with mine. I quickly looked inside the picnic hamper and checked the items as requested, before tipping the valet.

I could feel Stephanie staring at me, again with the deadpan expression as I headed to the Dolphin Expressway in the direction of the airport, before turning southwards to Key Largo.

"Wassup, Babe?" I tried not to grin.

"Is this your own car?"

"Yes."

"A Porsche." Another deadpan. No judgement, but I detected that she was slightly amused.

"Yes."

"And the 911 Turbo?"

"Yes?"

"Is that your car too?"

"Yes."

She was quiet for a bit. For one thing, she didn't get all excited with dollar sign eyes. She seemed pretty chill. I decided to put her at ease.

"I figured the view would be better from the Cayenne, than the 911. They are both Turbo models."

"Right. That was thoughtful of you." I detected a smirk with that last remark.

"I aim to please," I smiled. "We'll be travelling along the Overseas Highway, which has 42 bridges, including the 7 Mile Bridge. Because it's a very scenic drive, you'll see so many of the islands that make up Florida Keys. It's 113 miles from Key Largo the Key West as we travel between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico."

"It's very impressive. I love the colour of the waters. I think we picked a perfect day."

"I hope you don't mind, going all the way to Key West. We could have opted for the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. However, I made an executive decision to show you the sights along the way. It's 135 miles from Miami to Key Largo, then another couple of hours drive to Key West. The drive itself takes three to four hours, but we can do it in less. There are many interesting stops along the way, so say the word if you'd like to check any of them out. There's a map in the glove compartment and chilled water in the chill box here."

"Road trip. Hm. Sounds good to me," as she reached for the map and the water bottles. She unscrewed the lid for me and handed it over. I took a few sips and she put it in the drink holder with the lid on, before having her own.

I was in my driving zone when she piped up, "So. Tell me something about you. I already told you something about mine."

"Depends on what you want to know."

"Are you always this evasive, like playing your cards close to your chest?" I raised an eyebrow at that astute observation. She amused me with her curiosity.

"You're the profiler. I think you have already made some evaluations," I challenged her. She chuckled.

"Ah. Ye old gauntlet is thrown." She half turned to face me with an assessing look, perhaps deciding where to begin as she held her chin, tapping her index finger to her lips and the tip of her nose.

"Okay. From reading in between the lines of the little snippets you inadvertently revealed, I'd say you are in the military, possibly, no probably recently deployed. You don't strike me as navy, or air force. I thought maybe marine, but I am settling on soldier, elite soldier. Captain Carlos."

I glanced at her to see her grinning with eyebrows raised, especially with her last confident statement.

"What made you figure that?" not indicating either truth or mistakenness in her sharp observations. Dios, but she was good.

"First of all, your carriage and how you move, your posture and how you are aware of your surroundings – except where cougars are involved." She chuckled. It was my turn to give her a deadpan expression. Not at all perturbed by my reaction, she soldiered on.

"Secondly, you used the word "decompress", which implies you have just returned from a tour, or a mission more likely. You reacted ever so slightly to my sassy "Captain Carlos" salute in the lobby just before our departure."

I smiled at her deductions with a raised eyebrow. This seemed to spur her on. "So, yes, a Captain, in the army, possibly an elite group where you are a leader. Hm. Special Ops or, Rangers! You're a Ranger." She was slightly in awe, but not overwhelmed by it, just confirming her reckonings.

"Furthermore, yesterday you indicated you were on a sort of vacation. When we were in Little Havana, your Abuela ticked you off for not visiting since you returned, again confirming a mission. "When were you going to tell me you were back," were her words I believe. You also again mentioned that you were on a "mini vacation, of sorts" a bit later. That further confirms a return stateside. But, I figured this is probably after you debriefed and went to a safe house, until you came here."

Now I was really curious. Was she an army brat herself? Is she in the military herself? Perhaps her father served.

"Also, you contacted your work, which I assume is here in Miami. You work out regularly and keep fit, and eat healthy. Your body is in peak condition."

I grinned. That is true. She will see that soon once we are aboard the boat.

"Well? How did I do?" There was nothing tentative about her question at all. She knew she was close.

"Oh. By the way, because of my work in that cadetship program, I have a higher clearance than a regular civilian. Just thought you needed to know that."

I considered how I should respond. Then I thought, what the hell. She's pretty well figured it all out without me specifically telling her myself. Higher clearance? Woah! That is what she said. How else would she understand military protocols with missions?

"You're pretty sharp and intuitive, you know. I am impressed with your deductions just from those snippets. You are observant, as you definitely proved with your cougar knowledge." She chuckled. "I confess, I was slightly distracted by your presence. I can imagine how your profiling skills would be highly sought after. Yes, I am stateside from a mission. It's not usual that I stay in a hotel, but it is an important part of re-peopling with regular civilians, which was recommended to me. I do work in Miami, a business I established with three of my colleagues."

She smiled at my confirmations.

"I have a question for you. What degrees did you complete at college? To be so perceptive with your assumptions, I'd hazard a guess that you did a psychology degree."

She smiled. "I completed an MBA, and I have degrees in Psychology, majoring in Criminal Justice, and Computer studies which enable me to do extensive, deep searches. That's just for starters." She grinned.

"So, yesterday's pseudo job interview? That was part of an ongoing investigation? From your Cadetship?"

"Yes."

"You were undercover."

"Yes."

I paused, taking all that in. Her qualifications are something we could use. It's like she stepped in out of nowhere, gift wrapped with all the right credentials.

"I can tell you, that the not for profit business, which was a front for child trafficking, is no longer in operation. Before they could abscond, yesterday afternoon the FBI and other joint forces, swooped in and made the arrests, closing down the racket with all the intel we had already gathered and what was revealed on their computers."

"Well done. You work well as part of a team, I assume."

"Yes. That is essential. We have each other's backs. I also had outside support and surveillance before, during and after my brief visit. Taking the photos was vital and the final nail in their coffin. Seeing the head of operations inside was pure coincidence. A huge mistake on his part. Going inside incognito was risky but a critical action to get the final proof and evidence. Before we met for Happy Hour we were debriefed."

I nodded my head in agreement. She went in like we do on our missions, with solid Intel, good cover with back up. I slowed down as we reached our destination, turning into the marina to park near our boat du jour.

"We have arrived. That's our boat over there for our fun in the sun and the sea. Let's go."

"Miami Babe?"

I grinned at her surprise. It fits.

oOoOo