Page 39 of Rescuing Mia
Samantha nods enthusiastically, her hand brushing Rigel’s arm as she speaks. “And the feeling of weightlessness, of just drifting through this whole other world… It’s indescribable.”
“I know exactly what you mean. There’s nothing quite like it, is there?” Rigel smiles, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
I feel a twinge of something—jealousy, perhaps—as I watch the two women fawn over Rigel. Their body language is obvious, with fluttering lashes and coy smiles, and I can’t help but wonder if he’s enjoying the attention.
But then Rigel’s hand finds mine under the table again. His fingers lace with mine, and the warmth of his touch chases away any doubts. He turns to me, his gaze soft and intimate.
“What about you, Mia? What’s the most exciting thing you’ve ever done?”
“Oh, I don’t know. I haven’t really had many adventures, not like all of you.” I blush, suddenly put on the spot.
Pete chuckles, his eyes twinkling with mirth. “Well, you’re in for a treat. This trip’s bound to give you a thrill or two.”
Samantha leans forward, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Speaking of thrills, did you hear about the couple who got caught skinny dipping during cocktail hour?”
Jessica gasps, her hand flying to her mouth. “No way! I thought that was just a rumor.”
Rigel laughs, shaking his head. “Sounds like someone’s vacation is off to a spicy start.”
“Ah, to be young and in love. Or lust, as the case may be.” Pete slaps the table, guffawing heartily.
The table erupts in laughter. As the chuckles die down, Jessica turns her attention back to Rigel, her eyes glinting with mischief.
“So, Rigel, any special someone waiting for you back home? A handsome guy like you, I bet you’re fighting them off with a stick.”
Rigel chuckles, leaning back in his chair. “Well, I’ve got a girl back home. Her name’s Stormy.”
My heart sinks, and a cold wave of disappointment washes over me. Of course, he has someone back home. How could I have been so naive to think…
Rigel continues with a playful smile on his lips like he’s telling a joke. “Stormy’s been with other guys throughout the years, but I’ve always been her primary. We always seem to find our way back to each other.”
I shift uncomfortably in my seat, unsure of how to respond. The idea of Rigel with another woman, even in an open relationship, makes my stomach churn.
“She’s a real beauty,” Rigel says, his eyes twinkling. “Fit, active, with these deep, dark-brown eyes that just pull you in. And her hair, it’s this thick brown that’s just begging to be touched. I love running my fingers through her hair.”
I feel a stab of jealousy, picturing this gorgeous, mysterious woman waiting for Rigel back home. How can I compete with that?
“But I needed some time to redefine who I am outside of the Navy.” Rigel sighs, his expression turning serious. “So I left Stormy behind. The truth is, I’m not seeing or dating anyone right now.” He turns to me, a spark of interest in his eyes. “Hey Mia, want to see a picture of my dog?”
I blink, confused by the sudden change in topic, but nod anyway. Why would he want to show me a picture of his dog?
Rigel grins, pulling out his phone and showing me a photograph.
I peer at it closely, my eyes widening as I take in the image. It shows a stunning woman with dark eyes and long, flowing brown hair, her arm wrapped around a large, handsome dog.
Before I can get a better look, Samantha yanks the photo out of my hand. “Ooh, let me see!” she coos, ignoring my annoyed glare.
Jessica leans close, grasping Rigel’s phone and peering closely at the picture.
“Is that a German Shepherd?” she asks, studying the picture intently.
Rigel shakes his head. “Nah, she’s a Belgian Malinois. An incredible dog, highly intelligent. That’s why they’re used in the SEALs and other military and law enforcement roles. They’re loyal, fearless, and have an incredible work drive.”
Samantha nods, clearly impressed. “Wow, I had no idea. That’s really fascinating.”
“She’s gorgeous,” I murmur, my gaze fixed on the woman in the photograph. Her beauty is striking, almost intimidating.
Rigel grins, taking his phone back from Samantha and tucking it into his pocket. “Yeah, she’s a real looker, isn’t she? Those are the two most important ladies in my life.” He leans in closer, his eyes locking with mine. “But like I said, I’m a free agent now. Open to new possibilities and new adventures. Especially if those adventures involve a certain someone who’s captured my interest.”