Chapter 13

In the middle of the ocean.

The tiny atoll rises barely two meters above sea level. The outer part is a coral massif that withstands the turbulent assaults of the sea. In the center is a thin strip of vegetation, made up mainly of palm trees, which gave the place its name “Coconut Grove”. In the middle of this is a sandy beach that encircles a peaceful lagoon. The smell of taros lends an irresistible aroma to the overheated atmosphere.

The pavilion is built on stilts, near the beach. The coral soil gives the meter of water that covers it an intense emerald green color.

She had arrived a few hours earlier. The trip was peaceful. She was the only passenger on the small plane and she slept the entire flight. She woke up just in time to see the perfect ring of coral that makes up the islet from the sky. The deep blue sea seems to be trying to swallow it up with its breakers covered in white foam. Inside, the lagoon is decorated with striking contrasts between blue and green.

As the plane descends to a small airstrip between the trees, the clean air of distant winds, so unlike the pollution of Nairobi, fills his lungs and fortifies his spirit. She is no longer upset with MM’s attitude. Better than the cold Boston weather and boring journalism classes.

A jeep picks her up and takes her to a pretty circular building with wooden walls and a palm leaf roof. Above the door is a sign on which is written: “Welcome to Paradise”.

A tall, German-looking woman greets her with a forced smile:

“We were expecting you, Miss Johnson. Your luggage is already in the pavilion. You must want to take a bath and rest...”

Rebecca, lying in the sun on the small terrace of the bungalow, looks distractedly around her. There are five other pavilions and beyond the reception, two other buildings.

Three powerful motor yachts are anchored in front of the beach. Further on, she sees some odd-looking wooden cages hanging a few inches above the water...

“Do you need anything, Miss? »

Rebecca is startled. A young girl, just over seventeen, completely naked except for a ridiculous apron that barely covers her most private parts, offers him a fruit cocktail.

“Oh ... Thank you”, stammered Rebecca, taken aback by this unexpected appearance. The young waitress recedes with a bow without ever turning her back on her. She is very beautiful, a blonde with blue eyes and tanned skin. Two bells adorn her nipples and a pair of thin rings, also golden, surround her ankles. The young girl turns around when she arrives at the door. Nothing, absolutely nothing, covers it behind.