Faced with Jocelyn's misunderstanding, Emma could only nod in silent agreement.
How could she possibly explain that her back ached from fighting off imaginary robbers in a dream? Even if she told the truth, Jocelyn would just think it was a lame excuse.
"Jocelyn, I'm taking her somewhere first. We'll see you at noon," Carter said as he walked out, seamlessly slipping his hand into Emma's.
Jocelyn looked thrilled, waving at them with a bright smile.
Emma happened to be wearing a red slip dress that Summer had personally designed and tailored. The stunning piece instantly caught Carter's eye, making his gaze linger.
As he led her out of the villa, the asymmetrical hem of the dress fluttered in the ocean breeze, offering tantalizing glimpses of her long, flawless legs with every step.
Carter couldn't help but steal a few more glances, though Emma didn't notice. Her mind was entirely focused on their destination.
"Where are we going?"
She had been curious ever since they arrived about what exactly Carter had planned.
After all, when she had asked him earlier, his answer had been frustratingly vague.
Carter let out a soft chuckle. "I'm taking you to a special place for a bit of a workout."
Emma blinked. For some reason, Jocelyn's teasing echoed in her mind, and a hot flush crept up her neck.
Out of the corner of her eye, she studied the casual shirt stretching across Carter's broad shoulders and narrow waist. It showcased his incredible physique perfectly.
She rubbed her fingertips together, remembering how nice his abs felt.
Just as her thoughts began to drift into dangerous territory, Carter came to a halt.
"We're here."
Emma snapped back to reality, staring at the massive beachfront amusement park in front of them. She fell into a stunned silence.
"This is the workout you meant?"
Amusement danced in Carter's eyes. "I've seen your paintings. You seem to really love places like amusement parks."
Emma froze for a second. It was true.
The last time she had genuinely enjoyed a theme park was on her sixteenth birthday.
Every visit after that had been strictly for survival, working part-time in a stuffy mascot costume to pay the bills while studying abroad.
"I figured you rarely had a chance to relax once you left the country. Take this opportunity to just let go and have some fun."

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