Chapter 5: Camille - Love On Time

Bright sunlight hits my eyes, a harsh reminder that I forgot to close the curtains last night before crawling into bed. I wake up sprawled sideways on the mattress, face-planted into the pillow, with a dangerously dry mouth. Last night's three glasses of champagne are thumping hard in my temples. I reach for my glasses on the nightstand, looking at the clock. I'm shocked to see it's 8:30 AM. It’s the latest I've slept in months.

Craving hydration, I kick off the blankets and stumble over to the mini fridge for a bottle of water. I have never been more grateful for a free day in my life. Once I finish the whole water bottle in one go, I pull myself together with a quick rinse. I slide into my favorite red bikini, pull on a pair of jean shorts, and toss a cream linen button-down over it. Grabbing my canvas tote bag, I toss in my sunglasses, a bottle of sunblock, a blue-and-white striped beach towel, and my current paperback. Snagging my phone and room key from the counter, I head out the door and make a beeline for the resort's dining hall in a desperate search for coffee.

I spot my mom and brother sitting at a table together, finishing up breakfast. The second Cooper catches sight of me, he waves me over with a grin.

“Good morning,” I mumble, dragging out a chair and sinking into the seat next to him.

“Rough night? Cooper teases, taking a bite of bacon. “How much did you have to drink?”

“Ha-ha. Very funny.” I say sarcastically, pressing my fingertips to my throbbing temples.

Mom reaches into her purse and pulls out a bottle of Advil, sliding it across the table. “Here, honey. Take two of these, it’ll help.”

“I only had three glasses of champagne,” I whine, uncapping the bottle. “Why do I feel like absolute crap?”

“Probably because you never drink.” Cooper chimes in with a shrug. “Three drinks is just a warm-up for me.”

Mom looks over at him with silent judgment, shaking her head.

“I drink!” I say, narrowing my eyes at him. “I think I was just dehydrated from the long travel day yesterday.”

“What are your plans for the day, Cam?” Mom asks, turning her attention back to me.

“Well, first is coffee. Then I'm taking my book down to the lake, and that is exactly where I plan to stay for the rest of the day,” I smile. “What are you two up to?”

“Your father and I are heading into town. We’re probably going to scout out a nice lunch spot near the water,” she says, taking a sip of her own mug. “Then later this afternoon, we'll just be floating around welcoming more guests as they arrive.”

“Ivy and I are taking her niece, Emma, to the aquarium,” Cooper adds. “Give her mom and dad a chance to have a free date day before the wedding festivities start.”

“Aw, that’s really sweet of you guys.”

Speaking of Ivy, she walks into the dining hall. Her white, frilly romper and golden-blonde curls bounce with her happy energy. “Good morning, family!” she says, her voice bright and chipper. She leans down to press a quick kiss to Cooper’s cheek before heading straight for the coffee station.

“Hey, Ivy, do you mind grabbing me one while you’re over there?”

“Sure, babes!” she smiles.

A minute later, she returns, balancing two steaming mugs of black coffee. I take a grateful sip and close my eyes, letting the liquid warmth settle into my belly.

“Thank you so much.” I sigh.

“No problem,” Ivy says, sliding in next to Cooper. She cups her face in her hands, staring up at me with her honey-brown eyes. “So... how was the rest of your night? I heard Christian hit on you.” She giggles.

Cooper’s head snaps up, and he practically chokes on his coffee. “He what!?”

Ivy playfully smacks his arm. “Oh, relax, babe.”

“Nope, nope, not happening,” Cooper says, crossing his arms, his protective older-brother radar going on high alert. Cooper has always held high standards for the guys I've dated, it’s why I never bring anyone home to meet my family. But at the same time, there’s been no one I’ve ever wanted to bring home.

I roll my eyes, completely unfazed. “And what on earth makes you think I'd want to involve myself with him anyway?”

“She doesn't have to marry the guy, Cooper. The girl deserves to enjoy a little harmless flirting.” Ivy points out, flashing me a subtle wink. She has been trying to play matchmaker for me for as long as I can remember.

“You know what? You're right, thank you, Ivy!” I sit up a little straighter, throwing Cooper a smug smirk.

My brother drops his head into his hands with a dramatic groan. “Ugh, come on, guys. Gross.” The three of us burst out laughing at his misery.

“Alright, kids, I'm going to go track down your father,” Mom says, sliding her chair back and standing up. “Everyone, have a great day! And Cami, enjoy your flirting. I expect a full rundown later tonight.” She chuckles, kissing the top of my head.

“Really, Mom? You too?” Cooper groans from behind his hands, which only makes Ivy and me laugh harder.

* * *

My favorite photo from today.

My heart suddenly skips a beat as I stare at the screen. It’s a picture of me on the shore, my book in one hand and my other shielding the sun from my eyes as I read. The bright sunlight accentuates the beads of water glistening on my skin, and the sheen of the sunscreen gives me a flawless, golden glow. Damn. He was right. This is a really good photo.

I smile wide at my screen as I save his number.

Cami

Dang, how much editing did it take you to make me look that good?

Drew

Zero. That's all you and your natural beauty.

Cami

Well, now I don't know whether to say thank you or accuse you of lying.

Drew

I’m not lying, Cami.

Cami

Then, thank you.

Drew

You're welcome. I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight.

Cami

Goodnight, Drew….And seriously, thank you.

I pull the phone to my chest, closing my eyes. I can't help but picture Drew lying in his own bed in the dark, his laptop splayed across his lap, staring at a photo of me half naked on the lake shore. The thought makes my heart hammer wildly against my ribs.