How to Honeymoon Alone

by Olivia Hayle

The phone between us starts to ring. Phillip stares at it without making a move to answer. His hair is usually brushed back, but it’s messy now, dark and ruffled in the ocean breeze. “You’re ignoring it?” “Thinking about ignoring it, at least,” he says. “I already know it’s an attorney at my firm. He’s an idiot.” “Doesn’t he know you’re on vacation?” “Oh, he sure does.” I reach for the phone, pausing with my hand over it. “Can I?” Dark-blue eyes meet mine, and there’s that dimple again, flashing briefly as he smiles. “Go right ahead. His name is Briggs.” “You won’t regret it,” I say and answer the call. “This is Phillip Meyer’s phone,” I say in my brightest, most teacher-y voice. “Who’s this?” a frazzled male voice asks on the other end. “Is he around?” “My name is Eden, and yes, he is,” I say sweetly. “Well, can you put him on?” I look across at Phillip. He’s resting his head on his hand and watching me, amusement shining in his blue eyes. “No, I can’t,” I say. “He’s on vacation.” The man on the line sighs. “Yeah, I know, but he’s needed. Put him on.” “You’re Briggs. Right?” There’s a pause. “Yes.” “Well, Mr. Meyer is a hardworking member of the team and is, at present time, enjoying two weeks of his earned vacation. All we ask is that these days are respected. And Briggs? He’s spoken highly of you and your work ethic. I have every confidence that you’re fully equipped to handle whatever crisis has just occurred. You have the voice of a competent man.” Phillip is grinning...