Chapter 5: First Taste

The easy rhythm of conversation flowed over the clinking of cutlery and the warm morning hum of the resort. Faith, radiant in the golden light, spooned fresh mango into a bowl of coconut yogurt, her eyes flicking between Paul and Kacie as she spoke about their plans.

“We’re here for the week,” she said, sipping her mimosa. “Paul has a cybersecurity conference in Manila next week, but we decided we needed this first — a proper escape. Sun, beach, maybe a little mischief.”

Paul chuckled, dabbing his mouth with his napkin. “You know Faith — she doesn’t believe in slow starts.”

Kacie smiled, relaxed now, the initial tension softened by warmth and curiosity. “I think that’s smart. You don’t get the best of a place unless you let yourself feel it first.”

She forked a piece of ripe dragon fruit delicately onto her plate, her appetite light but steady. “I used to model — mostly runway and swimwear. But now I run my own agency. We’ve built something solid here, working with international clients and promoting local talent. I’m staying here for a few days to scout it — might bring a few teams in for a campaign next month. But,” she added with a small grin, “this is mostly about giving myself a break. Something rare these days.”