“I know, I know,” I muttered, adjusting my sunglasses as I followed a small group of guests toward the waiting golf carts. “I just... girl, I think these people are on a different level. Like… I’m trying to get a brand off the ground. They already have multiple successful exits. What makes me different?”

“And what do I always say?”

I rolled my eyes. “You don’t have to be in the room to be the richest, just the most talented.”

“Damn right. Now get off my phone and go be unapologetically you.”

“Fine, fine,” I laughed before hanging up.

By the time I arrived to the resort, an attendant dressed in an immaculate white linen uniform was already waiting for me, a glass of chilled champagne in hand. “Welcome to Iluna Cay,” she greeted smoothly. “I assume you’re here for the retreat so please, allow me to escort you to your villa.”

I accepted the champagne, my fingers grazing the chilled glass as I took a sip. It was crisp, perfect, and probably worth more than my rent back home. By the time I was alone in my villa, I felt both awestruck and restless.

The space was gorgeous—a flawless blend of modern architecture and tropical luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows, a balcony overlooking the water, and a bathroom that looked straight out of a five-star spa.

I slipped out onto the balcony, leaning against the glass railing as I took in the view. Turquoise waves lapped lazily against the shore, the sky painted in soft hues of orange and pink as the sun began its descent. I had never seen anything so breathtaking.

And then, something caught my eye. A man—tall as hell and ridiculously fine—walked along the beach like he owned the damn ocean. Shit, maybe he did. His shirt was unbuttoned just enough to reveal a hint of tattoos on his chest leading to the ones on his strong-looking arms on his chocolate skin. The salt and pepper beard thing worked for him too.

Well, goddamn… I swallowed hard, watching as he disappeared down a private path. Something about him sent a slow, unwanted chill down my spine. I shook off the distraction and focused on the real reason I was there. Walking back into my villa, I started to get ready for the mixer that was in an hour.

I slipped into a cream-colored maxi dress that hugged my curves in just the right way and brown wedges with gold accessories. It was professional but also just enough to make an impression. I kept my makeup glowy and effortless, the kind of look that said I was already successful, I just needed the money to match. I left my hair out of its twists, long and wavy, cascading down my back. Although I was sure I’d regret it as the night went on and it was stuck to my neck from the damn heat.