"I trust you, and I'm excited to go on an adventure with you," I say sincerely. "I can't wait to discover where this journey leads us."
Gerald's relieved exhale comes through the phone. "You won't regret placing your faith in me, Alina. Our adventure begins soon, my little lamb."
Little lamb. His choice of words floors me, mirroring his nickname for me in my steamy dream about him. What are the chances? It's like the universe is sticking a blinking neon arrow over his head and screaming 'Go for it'!
"Why did you just call me that?"
"Little lamb? You just have this pureness, innocence… cuteness about you."
Wow. Even his nicknames are perfect. Although I know a few people who wouldn't describe me as pureorinnocent.
But my excitement is tempered by a nagging concern—leaving Yara, even for a short time. Though capable, she is only twelve, and we've scarcely spent a night apart. I'd leave her with mymother, but it's strictly against the rules of her home, and there's no way Yara could realistically hide out for several days without someone noticing her.
Sensing my hesitation, Gerald says gently, "I know being away from Yara worries you. Tell me what would make you comfortable leaving her."
I consider his question. "I'd need to know she's being cared for by someone truly trustworthy. And that I can still be close, even from afar."
"Of course," Gerald immediately replies. "I'll arrange for a nanny—someone vetted and capable of tending to Yara's unique needs. You can video chat daily, and Yara can call anytime she wants. Does that work?"
I exhale in relief, touched by how sincerely Gerald tries to accommodate my misgivings. How he anticipated my concerns without me having to explain. "Yes, I believe so, that sounds good. Thank you."
"Yara's wellbeing matters to me because you matter," says Gerald. "I'll always respect your priorities and make them mine, too."
Bolstered by Gerald's reassurance, I gather my courage to speak with Yara.
I sit her down, taking her small hands in mine.
"You know I met someone special, Yara. Mr. Gerald. He wants to take us both on a trip soon, but I have to go and meet him first, to make sure it's safe. You'd stay here with a nanny."
Yara's lip quivers. "You're leaving?"
"Just for a short while, sweetheart. And we can talk whenever you want."
"Will he be mean like Mr. Luchenko?" Yara asks worriedly.
I squeeze her hands. "No, my love. I don't believe so. But remember, if anyone makes you uncomfortable, you tell me right away. Even if they say to keep it secret. Okay? And your grandmother will be close by as well. We'll make sure you're both safe."
"Who is the nanny? Are they nice? Will they do dance routines with me?"
Her questions make me chuckle. I stroke her hair gently. "We'll find someone kind who will keep you company, I promise."
Yara nods bravely. "I'll miss you Mama. But I'm glad you're going on an adventure."
I hug her tight, my hopes and fears intermingling.
I just pray that my trust in Gerald is warranted, and that our journey together will lead someplace beautiful.
Chapter 7
Alina
The moment I clear customs and step into the arrivals area at the small island airport, I'm greeted by a tall, thin stranger in a suit. "Miss Petrov?" he inquires politely.
I nod at the man, wondering how he's able to wear an immaculate white shirt and long slacks in the humidity and heat that have enveloped me since the moment I stepped off the plane.
"Mr. Cranshaw sent me to collect you, ma'am."
Interesting. I guess I'd expected Gerald to greet me himself. The man must notice my confusion as he follows up with, "He had an important business meeting and wanted to make sure he wasn't late in picking you up."