Page 65 of After You Returned

He freezes. “Not on the island?”

“If I accept the job, I’m moving.”

“I thought you loved this island.”

“I do. I love Smuggler’s Hideaway, but I can’t stay here if there isn’t work for me.”

“What if you could find a job on the island? Would you stay?”

“Silly question. There are no jobs for me on Smuggler’s Hideaway.”

“You didn’t answer the question.”

I roll my eyes. “If a miracle occurred and a job for a physical therapist magically appeared in the Easter Bunny’s basket, then, yes, I would stay.”

“Okay. Good to know.” He squeezes my hand. “Now, tell me all about this job.”

I proceed to tell him all about my internship with the Army Medical Retention Processing Unit when I was in grad school.How I met Major Phillips there. How I love working with military members.

I avoid any discussion of moving. Of leaving the only place I’ve ever considered home.

Leaving him. Miles. The only man who’s ever made me feel safe. Not just physically but safe to be me.

My stomach clenches. Can I leave Miles? After I’ve finally given him a second chance?

Chapter 22

I don’t care what anyone says. Helping your girlfriend is a kind gesture.

Miles

Istride into theHideaway Haven Resort.I don’t know if this idea will work, but I have to try. I can’t lose Hazel. Not now, after she’s finally given me a second chance.

“May I help you?” The front desk worker – Roger, according to his badge – asks.

“I’m here to see Hudson.”

He frowns. “Hudson?”

“Mr. Clark,” I clarify, although I’m not certain why I’m clarifying. Surely, he knows Hudson owns this resort. Everyone on the island knows who Hudson is, considering he grew up here and became a famous NFL player. When he got injured and couldn’t play ball anymore, he returned to the island to start this resort.

“Do you have an appointment?”

“No. Tell him Miles is here.”

“Miles?”

Roger is obviously not from the island. No Smuggler can sound as condescending as he does.

“Miles Raider, Eli Raider’s little brother.”

He sniffs. “You’re Eli Raider’s brother?”

Of course, he knows Eli’s name. Eli is a billionaire. Everyone on the island knows who he is.

“My mom claims we’re brothers,” I joke, since Roger could use more laughter in his life.

“Yes, well, Mr. Clark is not simply available for someone’s brother.”