The Cruel Game ✓

Chapter Twenty Four

MARIA

The beach stretched out before us, a vast expanse of sand and sea. The sand was soft and warm underfoot, and I could feel it sinking between my toes as I walked. The water was a deep shade of blue, shimmering in the moonlight, with gentle waves lapping at the shore.

To the left and right, the beach stretched out as far as the eye could see, framed by rugged cliffs that rose up in the distance. Palm trees swayed in the breeze, casting long shadows over the sand, and the air was filled with the scent of saltwater and tropical blooms.

Small crabs scurried across the sand, darting in and out of their burrows, and small schools of fish could be seen darting in the shallows. Seagulls cried out overhead, their sharp calls adding to the sense of tranquility and calm.

As I looked out to the horizon, I could see a few boats bobbing in the distance, their lights twinkling in the dark. It was a peaceful scene, one that felt like it had been lifted straight from a postcard.

I walked along the beach, my heels sinking into the sand with every step. I couldn't help but feel frustrated at my choice of footwear, but I had wanted to look good for Kingston. As we walked, I let out a sigh, "I really should have worn flats, these heels are killing me."

Without a word, Kingston knelt down in front of me and raised my leg onto his thighs. I watched in confusion as he began to unfasten the straps of my high heels. As he pulled them off, his fingers brushed against my skin, sending shivers down my spine.

"Better?" he asked, standing up and holding my heels.

I smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over me. "Much better, thank you."

We continued walking along the beach, our bare feet sinking into the sand. With every step, I felt more connected to the earth, and to Kingston. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was the only sound we heard, and the stars above us seemed to shine brighter.

As we walked, Kingston wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me closer. I felt his warmth against my skin, and I couldn't help but lean into him. We walked in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the peacefulness of the moment.

Finally, I broke the silence. "Damien..."

"Maria."

Just spit it out Maria.

I looked over at Kingston and took a deep breath. "There's something I need to tell you."

He turned to me, a look of concern on his face. "What is it?"

I took another deep breath before continuing.

"I love you, Kingston."

Kingston leaned in to kiss me, the cool breeze from the ocean brushed against our faces. We were standing on the beach, the waves crashing against the shore in the background. It was a perfect moment, and I couldn't imagine being anywhere else.

His lips were soft against mine, and I could feel his arms wrap around me as we kissed. The breeze picked up again, blowing through my hair and making me shiver. But I didn't want to pull away from Kingston. I wanted to stay in this moment forever.

His lips travel down to my neck, he drops my heels and I moan softly as they continue to travel towards my chest. The beach was completely empty.

Every kiss has a raw intensity - breathing fast, heart rates faster.

He slid off his huge blazer and rested it onto the sand, I help him unbutton his shirt and slowly drag it down his biceps as we also rest that onto the sand. We lay down, the tips of Kingston's fingers must be electrified; my skin tingles and goes crazy whenever they come into contact with it, so I can only assume that they are.