Wild Ride Read Free Page A

promise.  But she did know that it was unlikely that Rip would wind up on Eden.
    “So why are there bikers on Eden this week?” she asked.
    “The master of the island loves motorcycles and he decided to invite a few motorcycle clubs to the island.  He’s arranged to bring their bikes over and everything.  I wouldn’t be surprised if there are a number of guests who will be finding their happiness, ” Joely winked, “with bikers this week.”
    Marissa clenched her fists.  “Not me.”
    “Well, you never know.  If you’re afraid of bikers, maybe the island has decided to fix that fear.”  Joely grinned.  “Or maybe you’ll have a fling with a nice guy who goes to the office from nine-to-five Monday to Friday, but rides a bike on the weekends.  He could still have the tats and leather, but not scare the pants off you.”  She laughed.  “I mean, don’t get me wrong.  The pants can still go.  Just not because you’re scared.
    Marissa drew in a deep breath and shook her head.  “If that’s the island’s plan, then it’s got it wrong this time around.  If I never see a biker again, it’ll be too soon.”
    “Oh, honey,” Joely said with a smile, “the island never gets it wrong.”
    * * *
    The plane landed gently on the water, then taxied to a long wooden dock that lead to a beach.  The view coming into Eden had been stunning, with the huge castle on the center of the island glittering like a precious gem.
    Joely turned off the engine, then hopped out of the plane and opened the door for her.  Another Eden staff member, a man with a friendly smile, wearing the same khaki shorts and black polo shirt as Joely, offered a hand to help Marissa from the plane as Joely pulled out her bags.
    “Welcome to Eden,” the newcomer said.  “My name is Bill and I’ll take you to the resort.”
    Marissa stepped onto the dock, relieved to be on firm ground once again.  She turned to grab the handle of her suitcase.
    “Don’t worry about your luggage.  It will be taken up to your room,” Bill assured her.
    She followed him along the dock, enjoying the stunning view of the glittering ocean and white sand.  Soon they arrived at an elegant marble staircase leading up to the jewel-like castle glittering in the sunlight above.  As they reached the top of the steps, the majestic entrance to the castle stood before them.  Bill led her inside, past a beautiful fountain.  The air-conditioned interior was welcome after the heat of the outside air.  Within moments he had her checked in and handed her a black bracelet.
    “Just attach this around your wrist.  It acts as your key.”
    It was soft and pliable and she easily pulled it onto her wrist.
    “Just hold it close to your door,” he explained, “and it will open.”
    “Thanks.”
    At that point, he walked her to a stone wall which opened to reveal an elevator, then he guided her to her room.  Sure enough, when she held her bracelet to the door, it swung open like magic.
    “Oh my God, it’s beautiful.”
    “I hope you enjoy your stay.”  Bill smiled and strolled back down the hall.
    Marissa strode through the large room furnished with a bright colored sofa and chairs, teak furniture and tropical plants, and headed for the big windows.  Outside was a large balcony with loungers, a table and chairs, and even a private hot tub.  Lovely flowering potted plants added splashes of color, and beyond was a breathtaking view of white sandy beaches and the ocean.
    Marissa opened the sliding door and stepped outside, breathing in the flower scented air, then leaned against the railing, taking it all in.
    She could spend the whole week right here.  But she had promised Lana she would get out and meet people.  Lana had actually insisted she meet some hunky guys and try to get lucky.  She’d made Marissa promise to hit the pool and the bar as soon as she got settled in and find some hunky guys to spend time with.
    A knock sounded at the door and Marissa