Chapter 232: Golden Sands
When it was finally time to head back to the city, Nick and Georgia decided to go their separate ways from the others since they needed to pick something up for Katie on the next town.
On the road, Georgia sat unusually quiet, her gaze fixed on the passing scenery. Nick noticed instantly. Without taking his eyes off the road, he reached for her left hand, brushing his lips tenderly across the back of it.
"What’s on that pretty mind of yours?" he asked softly.
Georgia blinked and turned slightly toward him, though her eyes quickly drifted back to the window. "What Oliver said earlier... If that woman really was a witness and she’s dead now, what’s the point of talking to her sister? Maybe she’s not hiding anything—maybe she’s just grieving. That would explain why she refused to talk."
Nick’s thumb brushed her knuckles reassuringly. "We can’t assume until we get to the bottom of it. Don’t worry too much—Oliver’s smart, and he doesn’t give up easily. If there’s something there, he’ll uncover it."
He released her hand only when he needed both on the wheel. Georgia frowned as the car veered left, the unfamiliar road giving way to one that looked more deserted, lined with tall grass and trees.
"Wait—where are we going? The shops are in the next town," she asked, already thinking of what naughty plans Nick had in store for her.
Nick’s lips curved into a secretive smile. "I know. But before that... I want to show you something."
Georgia’s brows knitted together, but she stayed quiet, watching as the car rolled into a cul-de-sac property. Tall black iron gates stood before them, paired with sturdy wooden boards that were evenly spaced out.
The guard stepped forward, checked the plate number of Nick’s car, and then, with a nod, swung the gates open. They drove a little further until the view unfolded—a charming, beach-inspired reception hall tucked neatly behind the fence, its pale wood and breezy architecture blending with the salt-kissed air.
Several staff members were already waiting at the entrance, as though anticipating their arrival.
Georgia’s lips parted slightly, curiosity sparking in her chest. Whatever Nick was planning, it wasn’t something ordinary.
"Why are we here?" Georgia asked, her neck craning slightly as she tried to catch more of the glistening shoreline visible from the parking lot.
Nick only smiled and said, "You’ll see," slipping out of the car in a rush. In seconds, he was at her side, opening the door with excitement.
The moment Georgia stepped out, staff members approached with cheerful greetings, draping fragrant flower necklaces around their necks.
"Oh! This smells so good," Georgia said with a small laugh, lifting the petals closer to her nose.
"Welcome to Golden Sands Private Resort. This way, please," one of the attendants said warmly, guiding them toward the reception hall.
Inside, another staff member handed them tall glasses of chilled coconut shake. Georgia took a sip, savoring the sweet, refreshing taste, when a poised woman in a tailored uniform extended her hand.
"Good evening, I’m Carmen, the resort manager. I’m glad you could make it today," she said with a professional but welcoming smile.
"Thank you for accommodating us on such short notice," Nick replied politely. "We don’t have much time, so could we go straight to the spot you mentioned?"
"Of course, Mr. Knight. Follow me," Carmen said, leading the way.
Nick and Georgia trailed after her, their eyes naturally drawn to the airy architecture, the gentle sway of palm trees, and the horizon lit by moonlight that stretched endlessly toward the sea.
"This is really beautiful, Nick," Georgia murmured, her voice filled with awe. "But why are we really here?"
Nick didn’t answer right away, only flashing her that knowing smile that always left her both frustrated and curious. Moments later, Carmen stopped at the edge of the beach.
"Here we are, Mr. Knight," she said. "As you can see, the wedding ceremony can take place right here on the sand, facing the sea, with the pavilion for the reception just behind. The property has enough rooms for one hundred guests, and additional prefab units can be arranged if needed.
We also provide a fully equipped chef’s kitchen and a separate building for suppliers and staff, so your event runs seamlessly."
Georgia froze, stunned. "This... this is our wedding venue?" she asked, her gaze shifting to Nick.
Nick turned toward her, eyes soft and full of intent. "It can be—if you want it. You’ll have the final say. I just found this place online and thought of you.
It’s close to my mom’s house, so we could leave Wendy and Katie with her while we go on our honeymoon. That way, my mom and Katie won’t feel lonely." He reached for her hand, brushing his thumb against her skin. "I want to travel with you for at least two weeks, just us. But of course... it’s your choice. Whatever you like, we’ll do."
Georgia’s heart swelled as she looked back at the place. The place is well lit everywhere, her chest fluttering at the thought of a future that was suddenly so close, so real.
Georgia’s jaw dropped, and before she could stop herself, she leapt into Nick’s arms. Her legs wrapped tightly around his waist, her hands clinging to the back of his neck.
"Oh!" Nick let out a startled yelp, though his reflexes were quick—he caught her easily, steadying her as though he had been expecting it all along.
Georgia’s lips found his in a kiss that was anything but fleeting. It was deep, breath-stealing, and full of emotion, and of course, Nick had no objections. He kissed her back, pulling her closer until the rest of the world seemed to vanish.
Behind them, the resort manager and the two staff members blushed, exchanging knowing smiles at the unabashed display of affection.
When Georgia finally pulled back, her cheeks were flushed, her eyes sparkling. She hugged Nick tightly once more before slipping back down onto her own feet.
"Thank you so much!" she said breathlessly. "I love it already. I can picture our family and friends here with us, standing under an arch full of flowers while we take our vows. This is perfect, Nick! I can’t wait to marry you here."
Her joy was contagious; even the staff couldn’t help but smile at her excitement. The resort manager, especially, looked delighted—securing such a grand event was no small deal.
"That sounds amazing," Carmen said warmly. "Would you like to see our dock as well? It’s fully maintained and ready for your boat, sir."
Georgia tilted her head, brows furrowed as she turned to Nick. "Boat? Why would you bring a boat here?"
Nick grinned, eyes glinting with mischief. "We have a speedboat. We can use it the next day for water activities. The whole family and our guests can enjoy it before we leave for our honeymoon. Katie will love riding the speedboat and the jet skis."
Georgia’s chest tightened at his thoughtfulness, overwhelmed by the picture he painted so effortlessly. She hadn’t expected this much care, this much involvement.
With Raymond, everything about their wedding had been arranged by a planner; all she’d done was nod at the right places, say yes when required.
But this—this was different. This was her and Nick, hand in hand, planning every detail together. And it wasn’t just about a wedding. It was about building a life side by side.
******
Thank you for the Golden Tickets! So many!
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