Chapter 4

Not knowing what Steve had planned, I left a note for Will in case we got back late. I told him I would try to update him through text. I just picked up my pink shorts from the cleaners so that I can wear them again today. They were lucky for me yesterday on top of Diamond Head; they may be again today. I took the elevator down to the lobby.

Steve was standing by the floral arrangement in the center of the lobby. We came together and gave each other a quick hug and a kiss, and Steve said his rental car was right out front. We started driving, and he said he thought he would take us to the House Without a Key for lunch. What is that I asked? Steve continued, ‘It’s a magnificent hotel and restaurant on the ocean. I believe it was first built in the 1920s, but has had many remodels over the years.’ Before you ask, from what I understand, years ago, no one ever locked their homes, so it was named ‘House Without a Key.’ Wow, that’s interesting, I said.

As we drove into the sprawling parking lot, my eyes were immediately drawn to the hotel, an impressive structure adorned with elegant archways and lush greenery, radiating an aura of grandeur and beauty under the warm sun. Upon entering the dining room, the soft chime of cutlery and the hum of genteel conversation surrounded us. A polished maître d’ greeted us with a welcoming smile and gracefully led us to our table, perfectly positioned to overlook a pristine pool shimmering with reflections of vibrant blue and the sun’s golden rays.

In that moment, I felt a pang of self-consciousness, aware that my casual outfit might not measure up to the refined ambiance of the establishment. Yet, as I glanced around the room, I noticed that other guests shared my laid-back style—tourists like us, dressed similarly in comfortable yet stylish attire, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that eased my initial discomfort.

Steve, gracefully pulled out my chair, ensuring I was comfortably seated before taking his place. The experience felt like stepping into a world of elegance, promising a memorable dining experience ahead.

The waiter came by and filled our water glasses; then Steve suggested, “Let’s live dangerously and try the special today.” I said that’s ok with me. So Steve ordered two of the specials and a vodka 7 with lime for me, and an old-fashioned for himself. I asked Steve, ‘So, what were the specials?’ He responded, ‘I noticed on the sign that today’s special is Ahi Tataki, Ribeye, and Swordfish.’ I asked what Ahi Tataki is, or however you say it. Steve said, ‘I had it once in Japan, so it must be a Japanese dish.’ It’s sliced tuna marinated in vinegar, then pan-seared or flame-seared, and served with a ginger sauce. Quite tasty.

Steve said, ‘Ariana, I had a wonderful time with you yesterday.’ Meeting you on the beach was so wonderful. You are truly a remarkable woman, and your husband is incredibly fortunate to have someone like you. You’re a rare gem for sure. I replied, Thank you, Steve. I’m the lucky one. Here I am highly sexed and maybe even classed as a nymphomaniac, and I was fortunate enough to find a man who understands my needs and doesn’t get jealous. I try to make him as happy as I can. I bet you do, said Steve. Our food arrived, and we began to eat. Yes, everything tasted wonderful. We had such a lovely, peaceful meal. After we finished our main course, Steve signaled the waiter and ordered two more drinks for us, as well as two coconut cakes. Steve said, ‘Ariana, we just have to try the coconut cakes; they are renowned for them.’