Free Stranded in Paradise (The Blake Boys Book 13) by Rhonda Laurel Page A

it, which could be accessed by the stone steps that led the way up the small hill.
    “We’re going to stop here for a while and do some exploring,” Gustavo said as he shut off the engine.
    “Cool,” Autumn replied.
    “Is this part of the resort?” Jared asked.
    “Yes, the resort owns this property. It’s normally reserved for…special clientele who want privacy, but there’s no one here.”
    “Oh. Sounds mysterious,” Autumn mused.
    “The best view is at the top of the hill. It’s a great photo op of the surrounding areas.” He motioned to the camera hanging around Autumn’s neck. “You go take some pictures. I’ll stay aboard and do some paperwork.”
    “Sounds good,” Jared replied.
    “Ms. Waverly, you’re wearing very pretty sandals, but I’m afraid the rocks can be treacherous. You should probably hold Mr. Reed’s hand on the way up to make sure you don’t fall.”
    “I can handle—”
    “Thanks for the head’s up, Gustavo.” Jared clasped her hand.
    He had a good six inches on her, so he was mindful to keep his steps smaller, but Autumn wasn’t being cooperative. He could tell she was swaying and moving out of sync with him on purpose. OK, maybe she didn’t want him to lead, but that was no reason to risk an injury. The sandals she wore were nice, but they weren’t made for the rocky terrain of the path.
    He stopped. “You’re not wearing sensible shoes for this trek. Either we walk together or I carry you.”
    She glared at him. “I’d like to see you try. And don’t you dare try to pick me up. I took Sam’s self-defense class and I will karate chop you.”
    “Martial arts skills or not, I am not letting you cut your foot because you’re stubborn,” he countered and continued to walk with her.
    “Yeah, well you’re bossy,” she replied.
    “Being stubborn is worse. It’s a more manipulative way of being bossy. You don’t budge from some ridiculous stance and end up making anyone who wants peace to move around you and bend to your will.” He flashed a smile.
    Well that sent her into a tailspin. While Autumn fired back at how ridiculous his theory was, she kept in step with him as they winded up the hill path. When she finally took a breath for the next portion of her speech, they’d reached their destination.
    On top of the hill was a pleasant surprise. The terrain became smoother and a path of carefully placed stones led to a small bungalow surrounded by palm trees and banana leaf plants. The open porch was fitted with net fencing to keep the insects at bay. There was a hammock in the corner and an open roasting pit a few feet away from a dining table and chairs.
    “Well, isn’t this cozy,” Jared mumbled.
    “Let’s see what’s inside.” She moved past him and opened the door.
    The interior was just as impressive. It was decorated with exquisite furniture and state-of-the-art appliances.
    “I would have gone with a brighter color but nice nonetheless,” he said.
    “You just can’t turn it off, can you?”
    The faint sound of the boat’s engine caught their attention. They hurried to the edge of the deck and saw the boat heading back to the main island.
    “Is Gustavo leaving?”
    “Yes, he is.” Jared shielded his eyes to see the speedboat getting further away from them.
    “When will he be back?”
    “I don’t know. Missing Graham already?”
    “So we’re stranded?” She put her hand on her hip. “Did you plan this?”
    Jared held up his hands. “No. I didn’t, I swear.” He could tell by the look on her face that she didn’t believe a word he said.
    “Well I’m not participating in this shipwreck fantasy. I’m calling Amber and demanding she send him back to get us.” Autumn whipped out her cell phone and began scrolling furiously and held it up to her ear. “The call won’t go through.”
    “Let me try.” He dialed from his phone with the same result. “Great. I was expecting a call from a client.”
    “Aren’t you on