Page 12 of Clock Strikes Paradise

Once we were suited up and briefed, we eagerly jumped off the stern platform and descended into the crystal-clear water. I was clumsy at first, considering this was my first dive post-certification.

But soon I forgot about being self-conscious.

The underwater world that revealed itself before us was nothing short of magical—vibrant coral formations and schools of colorful fish darting about. I fumbled with the unfamiliar gear, but April’s steady presence helped me find my footing. Or rather, my swimming. When I gave her an affirmative nod that I was okay on my own, she took the lead of our little quartet. Clay eased closer to my side, remaining there throughout the dive.

He helped me several times when I fumbled with my bulky, vest-like buoyancy compensation device, providing assistance without ever being too forward. His silent concern touched me, even as I tried not to focus on how his pale eyes seemed even more vivid behind his mask. Instead, I allowed myself to become fully immersed in the wonders surrounding us.

We explored hidden nooks and crannies, admired the delicate dance of pale-pink sea anemones swaying in the gentle surge. We even spotted a shy reef shark in the distance. Bart looked even clumsier than I felt, and Aprilhad to help him several times as he became either too deep or too shallow.

In contrast, Clay’s movements underwater were graceful and effortless. He seemed so connected with the environment around us, gliding through the water while maintaining a respectful distance from the delicate marine life.

Bart tugged on my arm, interrupting my musings. My flash of irritation at him fled when I followed his pointing finger with my eyes. A stunning red sea fan stood nearby, its intricate web of branches reaching out like a natural work of art. A pair of yellow-and-black butterfly fish nestled near the base. As Bart let go, his fingers brushed over my hand, lingering just a moment too long and distracting me from the fan’s beauty. I yanked my hand away and swam back toward Clay and April, resisting the urge to scrub my skin.

Eventually, our dive came to an end, and we resurfaced, climbing back aboardIndigo Heaven. The sun was warm on our faces as we removed our gear and exchanged stories of our favorite discoveries.

“April, thank you for an incredible experience,” Clay said with a smile, his voice full of warmth and so different from his business persona. This Casual Clay was like meeting a totally new person, someone I wanted to know better.

In contrast, Bart’s behavior toward me swung back to being overly familiar, making me rethink last night’s assessment at the reception that I’d misjudged him. He leaned in a bit too close as he spoke, his hand barely brushing against my shoulder. I shifted uncomfortably, unsure how to address the situation.

But before I could say anything, Clay commented, “Bart, despite the surroundings, we’re professionals on abusiness trip. Let’s act accordingly.” His tone was deceptively light, but an unmistakable edge of steel lay beneath it.

Relief flooded through me, and some of the tension dissolved from my shoulders. I caught Clay's eye, and he gave me a deliberate nod.

Bart blinked, affecting an air of innocent confusion. “What do you mean? I was just being friendly.”

Clay's eyes narrowed slightly. “I think you know exactly what I mean. Elise is a valued member of our team, so maintain a professional distance. Are we clear?”

Bart's face flushed red. “Crystal,” he muttered, taking a step back as he turned to me. “I didn’t mean anything by it. Sorry.”

As Bart retreated to the other side of the boat, a rush of gratitude filled me. Not only had Clay noticed my discomfort, but he'd also taken action to address it. Just like that, I could breathe easily again, my focus returning to the beautiful ocean stretching out before us as we neared the canal to tie up to the dock.

Bart gathered his things and pleaded the need for a shower.

“I trust we’ll see you at our strategy meeting at four this afternoon?” Clay asked.

“I’ll be there,” Bart replied. “It’s a business trip, right? Gotta mix some work in with the fun.” He headed toward his cottage, leaving Clay and me alone on the boat’s deck. I inhaled, filling my lungs with the salty sea air.

Then I turned to face him. “I just wanted to say thank you for inviting me on this trip.” His eyes met mine, their blue hue drawing me in. “It’s been an amazing experience. I’ve never been anywhere tropical before.”

When he smiled, a slight dimple appeared on one cheek. “You’re welcome. I’m glad you’re enjoying it.”

“I’m guessing you had something to do with my gorgeous beach cottage. I distinctly remember booking a garden bungalow for myself.”

His smile widened, and it was slightly sly. “Can’t have our two bidders thinking I’m cheap now, can we?” Then he shrugged. “Besides, Podium can afford it.”

“Thank you.” I hesitated for a moment, searching for the right words. “I also appreciate how you handled Bart earlier,” I added, my voice soft.

“Of course,” he replied, his gaze sharpening. “I want everyone on our team to feel comfortable and respected. Has he crossed any lines with you?”

I hesitated, but I honestly couldn’t say yes. “He hasn’t. But it never hurts to have the boss throw in a word.”

He eyed me evenly, as if he sensed I was holding back. “I won’t tolerate harassment. Of anyone. If he makes you uncomfortable, tell me. I’ll take care of it.”

The last thing I wanted was to appear as a weak woman who needed protecting, so I waved him off. “That won’t be necessary. I can handle myself.”

“Yes, I’ve noticed that,” he said quietly. Again, our eyes held, and a ripple traveled slowly, deliciously, down my body.

I tore my gaze away to stare at the scuba tanks. “You dive very well. How long have you been certified?”