As they drove towards Palmetan, Lydia enthusiastically shared her plans for the island with Hannah.
After outlining her vision, she grabbed Hannah's arm and gave it an excited shake.
"Do you think I have a good shot at winning the auction?" Hannah believed that if it were merely about outbidding saffluent heir, Lydia would Likely succeed.
However, she had a nagging feeling that this auction might not be so straightforward.
"Hannah, what's wrong?" Lydia finally noticed her friend's preoccupation.
"You've seemed distracted ever since we got in the car.
Don't you want to come?" "No, it's not that," Hannah quickly reassured her.
"If I didn't want to come, I would have told you outright.
" "That's true.
"Lydia blinked, puzzled.
"Then why do you seem so out of sorts?" Hannah harbored a vague sense of unease, worried about what might await them on the island.
Yet, considering the gathering of affluent guests, she hoped any potential threats would tread carefully. Her expression softened.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt"I just woke up too early and I'm still feeling a bit sleepy.
My reactions are a bit slow today.
" Taking the cue, Lydia suggested, "Why don't you rest a bit in the car? I'll wake you when we get there.
"Okay".
Hannah closed her eyes to rest, but sleep eluded her.
As the car cto a stop, Hannah's eyes snapped open before Lydia could even speak.
They had arrived at the dock leading to Palmetan's island, with the vast sea stretching before them.
As they got out, a staff member welcomed them and guided them towards the ferry.
"Since this is a private island, the port only operates two ferries daily and isn't open to the public.
Before we board, I should remind you that the island is only partially developed, so cell service might be unreliable.
But don't worry.
The island has plenty of entertainment facilities and our staff will assist you upon arrival.
Walking beside the staff, Hannah listened intently.
Then she inquired, “We're here for the island auction.
Will there be a ferry available to take us back once it's over?" The staff member turned to her with an apologetic smile.
"As I mentioned earlier, Miss, there are only two ferries per day.
If the auction runs late, you might have to stay overnight.
But don't worry.
Our accommodations and dining are first-rate.
Meanwhile, Lydia was already lost in thoughts of the island.
"Look, Hannah! You can just make out the island over there!" Following Lydia's excited gaze, Hannah looked up.
The breeze Lifted her hair as she caught the faint scent of the sea.
The island, lush with green vegetation, was just a small speck in the distance.
The staff continued, "Though only half of the island is developed, our boss has invested significantly in it.
We have skilled staff and emergency medical personnel on site to ensure everyone's safety.
Despite the staff's reassuring wo rds, Hannah remained cautious.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmHer tension eased only slightly as they boarded the ferry.
But then, her eyes landed on an unexpected figure.
Bryson? What was he doing here?
The ferry was spacious, offering two seats per passenger, a luxuryo m compared to previous cruise ships they had traveled on.
Despite its function as a simple transport to the island the ferry M bpasted Nuxurious appointments.
The upper deck was designed for seating and sightseeing, while the lower deck was busy with staff En: preparing desserts and drinks. Before Hannah could explore the ferry further, her gaze met with a pair of dark eyes.
Bryson was sitting by the window, the seat opposite him vacant.
Soon after she noticed him, everyone else did too.
"Your man is staring at you.
Shouldn't you go over and talk to him?" Lydia nudged Hannah's arm lightly.
"I have a feeling he wants to speak with you.
Maloney, standing next to Hannah, seemed unsurprised by Bryson's presence.
"Looks like I guessed right after all.
" Hannah cast a brief glance at Maloney before making her way toward Bryson. Even as she sat down opposite him, his intense gaze remained fixed on her. After she settled into her seat, Bryson broke the silence first.