The Week That Bounds Us

A Day In Paradise

The Next Day

We got up as early as 6 AM due to excitement. The soft rays of the morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a golden hue across the room. The gentle sound of the waves crashing against the shore served as our alarm, urging us to rise and seize the day. We began our morning routine with a brief yoga session on the wooden deck of our overwater bungalow. The tranquility of the Maldives provided the perfect backdrop for our practice. The fresh ocean breeze filled our lungs as we stretched and moved through our poses, grounding ourselves for the adventures ahead.

After our yoga session, we each took turns showering, the warm water washing away any remnants of sleep. We then indulged in our facial and skincare routines, giggling endlessly as we applied masks and serums. The room was filled with the scent of lavender and chamomile, adding to the serene atmosphere. Our routine was interrupted by the cheerful knock on the door, signaling the arrival of the hotel staff with my breakfast tray. The tray was a feast for the eyes, laden with tropical fruits, freshly baked pastries, and a steaming pot of Maldivian tea. It was delicious and delightful, a perfect start to our day. We ordered two more trays for Kira and Rachel, who were equally impressed with the spread.

After breakfast, it was time to explore the Maldives. We put on our matching purple summerwears, the vibrant color reflecting our excitement. Kira, with her skilled hands, did our makeup, enhancing our natural beauty. She always helped us with our hair too, styling it in playful waves that complemented our outfits.

When we were done dolling up, we left our bungalow, the sun now fully risen and shining brightly. We met the lady, my tour guide from the airport, Ms. Clarke, waiting for us. Her friendly smile and warm demeanor put us at ease as we started our tour around the Maldives.

We visited many places, each more enchanting than the last. We wandered through bustling markets, the air filled with the scent of exotic spices and the sounds of vendors calling out their wares. We tried some local dishes, savoring the unique flavors that danced on our tongues. We bought some accessories we could find, delicate handcrafted jewelry and colorful scarves that would serve as reminders of our adventure.

We toured for hours, till it became early evening. We took a lot of fun pictures to show our family, capturing moments of laughter and joy. We were very excited, our hearts full with the beauty of the day. Ms. Clarke then told us to go back to our bungalow as the tour for the day was over and by 7 PM we should go to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant for our dinner. She also added that the company would be covering the expenses of my friends too, as I was allowed to come with my friends or lovers as part of the vacation prize. The only thing the company wouldn't pay for was other external expenses. We were so happy and excited, grateful for the generosity.

We had our bath, the cool water refreshing our sun-kissed skin, and dressed up for the evening. Rachel suggested we match dresses, so we all wore navy blue. Kira once again worked her magic with our makeup, and we all looked lovely. She also helped with our wigs, styling them to perfection.

When we were done, we left for Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. Ms. Clarke had booked our reservation for a table. As we descended into the restaurant, the underwater world came into view, and we were ushered to our table by a steward. The sight of the vibrant marine life swimming around us was mesmerizing. We were served the most scrumptious meal we had ever imagined, each dish more delectable than the last, along with a drink of our choice.

I was so busy feasting on it when Rachel distracted me.

"He’s still looking at you, Sasha," Kira added, her eyes twinkling with amusement. I turned again to see that the handsome guy was indeed still staring at me.

"He’s not looking at me, he's probably looking at you, Rachel," I replied, feeling a twinge of self-consciousness. "Why would he even be looking at me? He's probably making fun of me or something," I added, trying to brush off the attention.

"Why would you think that? Babe, you are really pretty and especially tonight, so why wouldn't he?" Rachel said in a serious tone, her confidence in me unwavering.

"Yes, she's right, you are very beautiful," Kira added, agreeing with Rachel.

I was very insecure about myself. Compared to Kira and Rachel, I felt like I was the least attractive. Rachel was very confident and outspoken, and it seemed to attract a lot of people. Kira was very girly and sweet, which made her grab guys’ attention. I, on the other hand, was shy, introverted, and more or less a nerd.

Although my friends always told me I was very beautiful, I thought they were just being nice. I never really thought it was true. But today, Rachel and Kira seemed pretty serious about it. Their sincerity made me feel a little better about myself, even if just for the moment.

Anyways, even if I was pretty and he was looking at me, it wasn't my problem. I saw how sad Rachel was when her heart was broken by her cheater ex, and I didn't think I wanted to go through that. Handsome guys are always trouble, that's a certainty.

Finally, he looked away. He and his three friends seemed to be conversing in Korean. It wasn't really my business, so I focused on enjoying the evening with my friends.

Just then, another set of guys, three Latinas sitting beside us, were having a discussion. They were speaking in Spanish and were definitely talking about us. I, Kira, and Rachel seemed to be the center of attention there.

"Haven't these guys seen a group of Black girls having fun," I thought to myself, feeling a mix of irritation and amusement.

At least the first set of guys were mannered, they just smiled and stared at us; this set were pure sexists. They kept speaking in Spanish, talking about us like we were sluts or something. Unfortunately for them, I could understand what they were saying, and I was irritated by them.

I noticed that the guys in front of us were also disgusted by their behavior.

Just then, one of the Latinas stood up and came up to us. "So I noticed you ladies are here for vacation. It’s cooped in here, and my guys and I were wondering if you would like to join us to get some fresh air. We could also head to Rangali Bar to have some fun, if you want?"

While he was saying straight-up garbage, I sent Kira and Rachel a message to hint them that the guys were saying degrading words about us.

Seriously, these guys have no shame. After calling us degrading names, they had the audacity to ask us to join them at a bar. Who and them are going to the bar?

Kira immediately replied him, "Sorry, but this is a girl's night only."

We continued our night, having fun and giggling while having dinner. The group of Latinas seemed like trouble, so we waited for them to leave first. After about 10 minutes, when they had finally left, we decided to go and turn in for the day.

As we got out, we headed to the beach to stroll a bit, as we were full from our dinner. The moonlight reflected off the water, creating a magical, serene atmosphere. Unknowingly to us, the group of Latinas followed us.

I just walked slowly along the beach with happiness, watching my friends scream, laugh, and run playfully. Their joy was infectious, and I felt my spirits lift with every peal of laughter. Then, I felt like I was being watched.

I immediately texted my friends, but they were too busy to notice my text. The laughter and the sound of the waves drowned out the vibration of their phones.

Just then, someone grabbed my wrist. I immediately turned, my heart pounding in my chest...