Second Chances

5. Adrianna

It had been a tiring journey to the islands but it was definitely worth it. What better way to begin her birthday weekend than a bumpy but luxurious boat ride to the island? Adrianna was now in her suite, showered and content with the vibes and the calm the place had to offer. It seemed as if she was in a different universe altogether, no humans obstructing her view of the clear turquoise waters as far as her eyes could see.

Adrianna was still wearing her bath robe, the view and the architecture of her suite distracting her from unpacking. After watching out at the horizon for some more time, Adrianna released a sigh, murmuring herself a happy birthday, before she turned around and walked towards her bags. It was time to change and explore the island, forget about the worries of the real world that plagued her. As much she tried, her mind couldn't stop thinking about Elton. His parents must have long arrived. Would they have noticed she was gone? She hadn't informed anyone, Elton didn't even have a clue. And yet, he hadn't called to ask if she was okay, or where she was, out of plain courtesy. No, she wasn't going to think of that man. This was her time to reinvent herself, to live the way she wanted to, without any shackles holding her back.

She put on a pair of linen shorts, a strappy top with a flowy shrug, slipped on her comfortable flats and was almost ready to step out. She took her hat, sunglasses, phone and earpods, and looked at the reflection that stared back at her. Her clothes were new, though her eyes held the sadness she was longing to forget. They lacked their spark, but she was affirmative that this trip would transform her soul for the better. Taking a deep breath, she stepped out of her suite and approached one of the staff members to guide her around. Once she was shown a trail that she could follow, Adrianna put on her favourite song and was off walking on a scenic trail - a kind of therapeutic activity that she had long lost touch with.

***

The sun had long set as Adrianna stepped out of her indoor-outdoor shower. Her excursion around the island had been blissfully refreshing. For the first time after her marriage, she felt alive, as if her life had a purpose, and it was more than being a miserable wife in a fake relationship. That walk had also cleared her mind regarding something that she had been contemplating for long. It was high time she joined her business again, brainstorm with her team; she missed all of that. If only Elton would listen to the ideas she had, his company would have started at least breaking even. No, she wasn't going to think of him again. A person who didn't respect her didn't deserve to occupy her mind so much, she argued with herself.

She saw the invite she had received upon her arrival. The island owner had organised a carnival-themed party for all the guests. And though there was no specific dress code to follow, all the attendees had to wear masquerade masks. Adrianna had almost decided to give this gathering a miss when she was handed over the invite. But now that she felt good and energised, she decided to give this party a shot. Fortunately, her stylist had packed an elegant red gown. Maybe she could wear that. After all, it would also be the perfect dress to usher in her birthday. With these thoughts in mind, Adrianna proceeded to get ready for the party, which was to start in the next thirty minutes.

***

"I would like a Cosmopolitan, please. Thank you."

Adrianna made herself comfortable in a corner as she placed her order. She was dressed in a red gown, which had a daring slit right up to her mid thigh. She could have been sultry if she wanted to, but she was too shy for that. She had her black masquerade mask on, which gave her an ounce of confidence to carry the daring red number with aplomb. But that was it, anything beyond that, she was yet to muster enough confidence.

It had been months since she had been to a party, no doubt the awkwardness she was currently feeling. No, this wasn't the time or place to be the old Adrianna. Hadn't she come to this place with the sole intention of breaking free from being the prim and proper girl all the time? It was her birthday, she was supposed to loosen up and experience fun like she never had before. And for that, she would need something stronger than a cocktail.

She took a few sips of her drink, already finding the alcohol calming her nerves. Yes, that is exactly what she needed if she were to go on that dance floor and break free from all the worries. Once done with her drink, her legs seemed to have developed a mind of their own as she made her way to where others were dancing. The music was peppy, and her mind and body seemed to have got the rhythm as she danced, maybe for the first time ever in her life, as if no one was watching. The fact that no one would or could recognise her made her feel better already as she made her way to the bar again, ordering a shot of tequila this time. A little bit more of liquid courage, she mentally justified her whim, as she downed the glass and made her way to the dance floor again.

What would Elton feel if he saw her dancing like this? Is this what he wanted in his wife? Is this where she was lacking? Did the girl that Elton loved have these qualities? Was being simple so undesirable? Her mind was overwhelmed with a whirlpool of emotions. She didn't realise when she had made her way to the bar again. "One more shot, please," she said a bit loudly over the music.

"That drink is on me." She heard a deep voice say beside her, making her breath hitch, making her all too aware of the closeness between her and the stranger.

"I... I can pay for my own drink, mister," she cleared her throat as she tried to sound arrogant. Yes, she wanted to discover if she had a wild side but flirting with strangers at a party? That was way off the charts for her!

"Please, I insist," the voice said again.

Adrianna turned towards the sound of the voice, only to be left speechless. Had Elton really come for her?