Chapter 9

It felt like no time had passed before the crew was getting ready to dock at Tillicum Village on Blake Island, a small marine state park accessible only by tour or private boat.

Salvatore held her hand securely as they disembarked with a blanket and a picnic basket. It was just past noon, and her stomach would be growling soon.

“The beach I want to show you is about a fifteen-minute walk down the eastern side of the island. Are you okay with that?”

“Of course.”

The trail offered lots of natural sights, and she stopped a few times to observe the view. She spotted a few picnic tables ahead and Mount Rainier just over the water.

“This is a gorgeous view,” she remarked.

Salvatore turned back to her and smiled. “I thought you’d like it.”

She couldn’t take her eyes off the scenery long enough to be much help unpacking their lunch. When she looked at the table, it was full of foods and drinks.

“Goodness, Salvatore, did you think we were camping out?”

He chuckled. “No, but my persona