Episode 3
Part 12: A Morning to Remember
Sunday morning came too quickly, and the jarring sound of the phone dragged Jadon out of a deep sleep. Fumbling for the receiver, he muttered, “Hello? Who is this?”
“Jadon, it’s Mya,” her voice came through, tinged with both excitement and hesitation.
He groaned, squinting at the clock on the nightstand. “Mya, why are you awake? What time is it anyway?” He rubbed his face, trying to shake the fog from his mind.
“Six a.m.,” she admitted sheepishly.
“Six?” Jadon let his head fall back against the pillow. “We got in at three, Mya.”
“I know,” she said, her voice picking up enthusiasm. “But there’s something I want you to see. Trust me, it’ll be worth it. Get dressed and meet me out front.”
Jadon sighed heavily, debating whether to ignore her. But before he could respond, she added, “Come on, Jadon. You’ll thank me for this,” and promptly hung up.
Grumbling, he swung his legs over the side of the bed and shuffled to the bathroom. Twenty minutes later, he stepped out of the hotel lobby, bleary-eyed, to find Mya waiting for him. She looked remarkably refreshed, as if she hadn’t been out late the night before.
“Hi,” she greeted him with a bright smile.
Jadon shielded his eyes against the early morning sun. “Mya, what’s so important this early? I don’t do sunrises. Hell, I don’t do early mornings, period, especially on vacation.”
She rolled her eyes and took his hand. “Oh, hush. Just come with me. I promise you won’t regret it.”
Jadon allowed himself to be led, his curiosity piqued despite himself. They crossed the parking lot adjacent to the hotel and stepped onto Pebbles Beach, the fine sand cool beneath their feet.
The beach stretched out before them, bordered by an aging jetty to the west and another further down to the north. The bay was serene, the water calm and clear, reflecting the soft hues of the dawn sky.
They walked side by side along the shore, the quiet punctuated only by the gentle lapping of waves and the occasional squawk of a seabird. Jadon cast a glance at Mya, who seemed perfectly content, her smile growing with every step.
“What’s the big reveal?” he asked, scanning the beach ahead.
“Patience,” she replied, her tone playful.
As they got halfway down the beach, Jadon noticed a small group of people gathered near the water’s edge. His curiosity deepened when he spotted the silhouettes of large, powerful animals approaching through the shadows into morning light.
Horses.
Jadon stopped in his tracks, watching in awe as a procession of thoroughbreds made their way onto the sand. Their sleek coats gleamed in the golden sunlight as their handlers guided them toward the water. Some of the horses waded in, their movements calm and deliberate, while others pawed playfully at the shallows.
“This,” Mya said softly, gesturing to the scene, “is why I dragged you out of bed.”
Jadon’s initial annoyance melted away as he took it all in. The sight was nothing short of magical. The horses, majestic and serene, moved with a grace that seemed almost otherworldly.
“This,” Mya said, gesturing to the scene, “is something you don’t see every day. They bring the horses here to cool off and exercise in the water. Isn’t it amazing?”
Jadon nodded, now fully captivated by the sight. The horses, majestic and calm, moved gracefully through the gentle surf. Their sheer presence was magnetic, and the sight of them against the backdrop of the tranquil bay was surreal.
“You were right,” Jadon admitted. “This is worth it.”
Mya grinned triumphantly. “Told you.”
They found a spot on the sand and sat down, their eyes fixed on the horses. The handlers coaxed some of them deeper into the water, where they swam with surprising ease. Others simply splashed around, their powerful legs sending sprays of water into the air.
“So, what’s the story with this?” Jadon asked, gesturing toward the scene.
“It’s a tradition,” Mya explained. “A lot of the racehorses from the Garrison Savannah come here in the mornings to unwind. The saltwater is good for their muscles, and it keeps them in shape for the races.”
Jadon leaned back on his hands, the salty breeze brushing against his skin. “It’s incredible. I’ve never seen anything like this.”
Mya turned to him, her face softening. “That’s why I wanted you to see it. There’s something about this place, you know? It has this magic that stays with you.”
Jadon looked at her, noticing the way the morning light caught the subtle highlights in her hair and the way her eyes reflected the colors of the sea. “You really love it here, don’t you?”
She nodded. “Yeah, I do. It’s peaceful, but it’s alive at the same time. And moments like this? They make you appreciate how much beauty there is in the world.”
Jadon smiled, his usual guarded demeanor slipping away. “You’re right. It’s easy to forget stuff like this exists.”
They sat in comfortable silence for a while, watching the horses and listening to the soothing rhythm of the waves. Mya stretched out her legs, her bare toes digging into the sand.
“So, what now?” Jadon asked after a while.
Mya smirked. “We soak it in. And maybe grab breakfast after. But no rushing. Just enjoy this.”
Jadon leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees as he took in the scene again. “Alright,” he said, his voice quieter. “I think I can manage that.”
The two sat together as the sun climbed higher, the horses moving like shadows across the water. For Jadon, the moment was a rare kind of peace, the kind he had known was missing. And for Mya, it was exactly the kind of connection she had hoped for.
Part 13: Breakfast at George Washington House
After an hour of watching the horses on the beach, Mya took Jadon’s hand and led him toward the path from which the thoroughbreds had come. Jadon followed her willingly, his curiosity mounting as they walked. He soon realized they were heading in the direction of the Garrison Savannah, though Mya stopped short of the racecourse.
Instead, she guided him through the gates of a stately property surrounded by lush greenery. A modest sign near the entrance read: George Washington House.
Jadon raised an eyebrow. “We’re going to a museum?”
Mya grinned. “Not just a museum, it’s also a great spot for breakfast.”
He chuckled, impressed by her spontaneity. It was a quality of hers he’d come to admire.
The house itself was an elegant two-story structure, its faded yellow walls and green shutters standing as a testament to colonial architecture. As they entered, Jadon noticed the air of history that seemed to cling to the place, from the carefully preserved furnishings to the subtle echoes of centuries past.
Mya led him to a charming courtyard restaurant, shaded by trees and framed by flowering vines. They were quickly seated by a cheerful host, and moments later, their server…a young woman with a warm smile approached to take their drink orders.
“I’ll have a French vanilla coffee,” Jadon said.
“And I’ll take a fruit smoothie, please,” Mya added.
While waiting for their drinks, they browsed the menu, a mix of traditional breakfast items and Caribbean specialties. By the time their drinks arrived, they’d made their choices: Jadon opted for a hearty plate of pancakes with tropical fruit, while Mya went for avocado toast topped with poached eggs.
As the server prepared to leave, Jadon stopped her. “Can I ask you something? Why do they call this place George Washington House? What’s the connection?”
The server’s smile brightened, and she leaned in slightly, clearly eager to share. “Well, this house is famous because Barbados is the only country George Washington ever visited outside of the United States. He came here in 1751 when he was just nineteen years old.”
“Really?” Jadon asked, intrigued.
“Yes,” the server continued. “He came with his older half-brother, Lawrence, who was very sick at the time. Doctors thought the warm climate might help his health. George stayed here for two months. In fact, people say the time he spent in Barbados helped shape the man who would later become the first U.S. president.”
“Wow,” Jadon said, glancing around the historic surroundings with newfound appreciation. “Who knew?”
“It’s a pretty special place,” the server said. “If you have time after breakfast, you should take a look around. The museum upstairs has some fascinating exhibits.”
“Thanks for the tip,” Mya said with a smile.
Minutes later their food arrived. The server excused herself, leaving them to admire their meals. The pancakes were golden and fluffy, topped with ripe mango, papaya, and a drizzle of local honey. Mya’s toast was equally inviting, the creamy avocado and perfectly poached eggs sprinkled with fresh herbs.
As they began to eat, Jadon couldn’t help but savor the balance of flavors in each bite. “This is incredible,” he said between mouthfuls.
Mya nodded, enjoying her own dish. “It really is. I think I found my new favorite breakfast spot.”
They ate in comfortable silence for a while, the tranquil atmosphere of the courtyard making them feel as though they’d stepped back in time. Jadon found himself stealing glances at Mya, appreciating not just her beauty but the effort she’d put into planning this unexpected morning.
“So,” she said eventually, setting down her fork. “What do you think? Was it worth getting up early?”
Jadon smirked. “Alright, I’ll admit it, you were right. This was worth it.”
Her laughter was soft but full of satisfaction. “Good. Because the day’s not over yet.”
Jadon raised an eyebrow, curious about what she had planned next. For now, though, he was content to enjoy this moment; good food, great company, and the quiet charm of history surrounding them.
Part 14: Bridgetown to Lime-Grove
The morning sun bathed the streets of Bridgetown in a golden glow as Mya and Jadon strolled through the quiet city. Sundays in Barbados were typically slow, with most businesses closed and the streets unusually calm. For Jadon, everything felt like a discovery. Though he hadn’t gotten much sleep, the novelty of his surroundings kept his energy high.
As they approached the Chamberlain Bridge, the first of two small bridges for which the city was named, Jadon paused to admire the view. The gentle ripples of the water reflected the bright hues of the nearby buildings. At the foot of the pedestrian bridge, a brightly painted snow cone cart stood under the shade of a large umbrella.
Mya made a beeline for the vendor, her enthusiasm drawing a smile from Jadon. She didn’t flinch at the cluster of bees buzzing around the syrup bottles. “Hi, I’ll have one with orange, cherry, coconut, and milk,” she said with confidence, then turned to Jadon.
“Milk,” Jadon asked, his face twisting in mild disgust.
“Yes, Mya replied with a grin. It’s condensed milk-thick, creamy and super sweet.”
“Try one?” she asked.
Jadon hesitated, glancing at the colorful bottles as if they might hold the answer. “Uh...I have no idea.”
Mya rolled her eyes and placed an order for him. “He’ll have pineapple, coconut, and milk.”
Jadon shrugged, accepting her choice. When the vendor handed him the icy treat, he took a cautious bite. The sweetness of the pineapple balanced perfectly with the creamy coconut, and he found himself nodding in approval.
“Good, right?” Mya said with a smirk.
“Not bad,” Jadon admitted, though the refreshing coldness alone was enough to make it worth it as the morning heat steadily rose.
They crossed over Chamberlain Bridge, their footsteps quick and purposeful. On the other side, they found themselves in Heroes Square, a tranquil space filled with statues and plaques honoring Barbados’s national heroes. Jadon walked slowly, studying the names and faces.
“This is incredible,” he said, gesturing to a monument of Bussa, a leader of the largest slave rebellion in Barbadian history. “I feel like I should know who these people are, but I don’t.”
Mya nodded thoughtfully. “A lot of us in the diaspora don’t know much about each other. It’s sad, really.”
“You seem to know a lot about this country, how come?” He asked.
She smile, “My parents used to bring me and my brother here every summer and sometimes for Christmas. It was our favorite place to be. Still is.”
Jadon moved to another monument, stopping abruptly when he recognized one of the names. “Wait...is that Rihanna?”
Mya followed his gaze and grinned. “Yup. She’s a national hero now.”
Jadon tilted his head, confused. “That’s...odd, isn’t it? I mean, she’s just a singer. These other people; rebels, freedom fighters, nation builders. It feels...different.”
“Why is it odd?” Mya asked, crossing her arms. “She’s put Barbados on the map. Her success has inspired a whole generation of Bajans. Isn’t that worth celebrating?”
Jadon considered her words and gave a slow nod. “I guess I can see that. Still, it’s wild to see someone so...modern in a lineup like this.”
Mya chuckled. “Barbados isn’t afraid to evolve, Jadon. Maybe that’s something the rest of the region could learn from here.”
They moved on, leaving the square and walking along the boardwalk that bordered the careenage. Jadon admired the kaleidoscope of pastel buildings, some old and weathered, others fresh and vibrant. Along the docks, sleek yachts and catamarans swayed gently in the harbor.
“It’s such a weird mix of old and new,” Jadon said, taking it all in.
“That’s Barbados,” Mya replied with a smile. “A little bit of everything, all mashed together.”
They continued deeper into town, the quiet energy of the morning slowly giving way to the hum of a few early risers and the distant sounds of church bells. Mya stopped at a small café for a bottle of water, and Jadon took the opportunity to glance at a map displayed outside.
“What’s next on the itinerary?” he asked.
Mya smirked mischievously. “You’ll see.”
Jadon gave her a skeptical look but followed her lead as they made their way to the bus terminal. By now, the streets were starting to stir, and the sight of a brightly painted minibus pulling up added a burst of life to the scene.
“We’re taking that?” Jadon asked, eyeing the crowded van with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
“Yep,” Mya said, climbing in without hesitation.
Jadon followed, squeezing into a seat as the bus roared to life, reggae music blaring from the speakers. The ride was fast and chaotic, the driver weaving through narrow streets with an agility that seemed almost reckless. Jadon held on tight, his wide eyes making Mya laugh.
“You’re not used to this, are you?” she teased.
“Not even close,” Jadon admitted.
By the time they reached Holetown and stepped off the bus, Jadon felt like he’d been on a rollercoaster. Mya led him to the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, a sleek, modern shopping and entertainment complex. The stark contrast to the historic charm of Bridgetown wasn’t lost on Jadon.
“A mall?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.
“It’s more than a mall,” Mya insisted. “Trust me, you’ll like it.”
They wandered through the open-air courtyards, surrounded by high-end shops and trendy cafés. Mya led Jadon to a quiet corner where they could sit and relax with cold drinks.
“So, this is your idea of exploring?” Jadon teased.
Mya smirked. “Not everything has to be an adventure, Jadon. Sometimes you just have to enjoy the moment.”
Jadon leaned back in his chair, watching as tourists and locals mingled in the space. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly at ease.
“Okay,” he admitted with a small smile. “I guess I can live with that.”
Part 15: Return To the Hilton Lobby
Jadon and Mya stepped into the hotel lobby, their skin still warm from the midday sun. The cool air inside was a welcome relief, and Jadon let out a low whistle as they crossed the marble floor.
“Finally,” he said, glancing around. “I think I melted somewhere between Bridgetown and here.”
Mya laughed, pulling her sunglasses off and tucking them into her bag. “Same. That sun doesn’t play.” She fanned herself dramatically. “I’m officially done with walking for the day.”
Jadon smirked. “You’re the one who dragged me all over town. What was it you said this morning? Oh, right…‘It’ll be fun.’”
“It was fun,” Mya said, raising an eyebrow at him. “Admit it, you liked it.”
Jadon tilted his head, pretending to consider it. “Yeah, I guess it wasn’t bad. But next time, I’m picking the activity. And it’s going to involve shade. And A/C.”
“Deal,” Mya said with a grin. She stretched her arms, clearly exhausted. “Speaking of A/C, I need a shower. I feel like I’ve been walking through a sauna.”
Jadon chuckled, running a hand through his damp hair. “Yeah, I’m with you. But first, I’m taking the world’s longest nap. This heat knocked me out.”
“Dinner later?” Mya asked, glancing up at him.
Jadon nodded. “Yeah, let’s do it. Just text me when you’re ready.”
“Alright, it’s a plan,” she said, flashing him a tired but warm smile.
They lingered for a moment, neither seeming in a rush to head upstairs.
“Hey, thanks for today,” Jadon said, his tone softer. “I didn’t know what to expect, but... I had a good time.”
Mya’s expression softened. “Me too. Glad you came along. You’re pretty good company, you know.”
Jadon grinned. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”
“It was,” Mya said, giving him a playful nudge before stepping toward the elevators. “See you in a bit.”
“Yeah, see you,” Jadon replied, watching as she disappeared into the elevator.
He exhaled deeply and made his way to his own room, already looking forward to whatever the evening might bring.
Part 16: A Night to Remember
Jadon decided to up the ante. After their earlier banter, he wanted to surprise Mya and show her that he could take the lead too. Without telling her, he made a 9 PM dinner reservation at The Grille, the upscale restaurant nestled within the hotel. It offered a Bajan-inspired gourmet menu, and he figured after a long day, staying close would be the perfect move.
At 9 PM sharp, Jadon waited in the lobby. He adjusted the cuff of his linen shirt, the soft white fabric complementing his tan slacks. He checked his watch just as Mya appeared.
She wore a sultry white evening dress that hugged her curves and moved gracefully as she walked. The rich golden tone of her sun-kissed skin stood out against the dress, and Jadon couldn’t help but take a slow breath as she approached.
“Hi,” she greeted, standing on her toes to kiss his cheek. As she leaned in, the subtle sweetness of her perfume wrapped around him.
“Wow,” Jadon said, taking a step back to look at her. “You look... incredible.”
Mya smiled, tilting her head. “Thanks. You’re not so bad yourself.” She admired how his athletic frame fit his effortlessly stylish outfit. “So, I was thinking maybe we could go…”
Jadon held up a hand, interrupting her with a playful smirk. “No, no. My turn tonight.” He gently took her hand, interlacing their fingers. “Come on. I’ve got this.”
Mya let out a soft laugh and followed his lead, curiosity dancing in her eyes. “Alright, Mr. Mysterious.”
When they arrived at The Grille, Mya’s smile widened. The warm glow of candlelight reflected off the elegant wood and stone decor. The aroma of fresh herbs and spices filled the air.
“Jadon,” she said, impressed. “This is perfect.”
“I figured we’d keep it simple,” he said, pulling out her chair. “Great food, good wine, and no cab rides tonight.”
They ordered a variety of dishes, including flying fish roulade, cou-cou croquettes, and a perfectly grilled marlin steak. Conversation flowed as smoothly as the wine, and Mya found herself drawn to Jadon’s wit and easygoing demeanor.
“You’re full of surprises, aren’t you?” she teased between bites.
Jadon shrugged with a grin. “I like to keep you on your toes.”
After dinner, they stepped onto the grounds, where the western edge of the resort seemed to slip seamlessly back in time. They stood on the site of an old British fort, flanked by weathered cannons set into fortified walls that still faced west, as if awaiting invaders from long ago. The fort, now a part of the hotel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, lay beneath a cool night sky scented with fauna and the nearby sea. The grounds were somewhat hushed except for the stir of the sea, the soft chirping of crickets and the occasional rustle of palm fronds stirred by the breeze.
They strolled in comfortable silence, the moonlight casting a silvery glow over everything. As they paused by a bench overlooking the water, Mya leaned against the railing, her face illuminated by the moon.
“This place is magical,” she said softly.
Jadon stepped closer, his hand brushing hers. “It really is. But... I think you’re making it that way.”
Mya turned to him, her lips curving into a soft smile. Her eyes met his, and in that moment, everything felt perfect.
Jadon leaned in, hesitating just long enough for her to close the gap. Their lips met in a slow, tender kiss, the world around them fading away.
When they pulled back, Mya let out a soft laugh, her cheeks warm. “Okay, Jadon. You win. Best dinner date ever.”
Jadon smiled, his hand still resting on hers. “You make it effortless.”
They lingered there, under the moonlit sky, savoring the moment as the waves whispered against the shore.
Part 17 First Encounter
The sound of waves crashing against the shore filled the quiet night as Jadon and Mya stood on the balcony of his hotel room. The moonlight cast a silver glow over the ocean, and the air between them was charged with an unspoken tension.
Mya leaned on the railing, her curls catching the light, and glanced at Jadon with a playful yet curious expression. “You’re awfully quiet,” she teased gently.
Jadon chuckled, his hands resting on the cool metal rail. “Just... taking it all in,” he replied, his voice a little strained. He glanced at her, his heart racing as he searched for the right words.
She reached out, her fingers brushing against his hand. “You don’t have to say anything,” she said softly. “I feel it too.”
Their eyes met, and the distance between them dissolved as Jadon leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss. It was tender at first, testing the waters, but quickly deepened as unspoken emotions surfaced. Her arms wrapped around his neck as he held her close, their shared breath mingling in the night air.
Jadon led her into the room, his heart pounding as they moved together. But as the moment grew more intimate, something inside him shifted. His hands, once steady, hesitated, and a wave of unease washed over him.
Mya, sensing his sudden tension, paused and looked up at him. “Jadon?” she asked gently, her voice laced with concern.
He stepped back slightly, running a hand through his hair. “I... I don’t know if I can do this,” he admitted, his voice trembling. “It’s not you. It’s me. I just…something’s holding me back.”
Mya reached for his hand, her touch warm and grounding. “Hey,” she said softly, guiding him to sit beside her on the edge of the bed. “You don’t have to explain anything right now. But whatever it is, I’m here. You’re safe with me.”
Jadon exhaled shakily, the weight of his emotions pressing down on him. “It’s just been a long time since I’ve let anyone get this close,” he confessed. “And I’m scared of messing this up. Of not being enough.”
Mya cupped his face, her eyes searching his. “Jadon, you are enough,” she said firmly. “You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be you. That’s all.”
Her words washed over him like a balm, easing the storm inside. He closed his eyes and rested his forehead against hers, taking a moment to let her reassurance sink in.
When their lips met again, it was different; slower, more deliberate. The fear that had held him back began to fade, replaced by a deep sense of trust.
They moved together with a newfound intimacy, every touch and kiss filled with a quiet vulnerability that spoke louder than words. Jadon allowed himself to let go, to be present in the moment, and to let Mya see the parts of him he had suppressed for so long.
Afterward, as they lay entwined, Jadon pressed a kiss to Mya’s forehead. “Thank you,” he said softly.
“For what?” she asked, her voice drowsy but content.
“For being patient with me. For understanding,” he replied.
Mya smiled, her fingers tracing lazy circles on his chest.
In that moment, Jadon realized that letting someone in didn’t have to be terrifying. With Mya by his side, he felt somewhat human again.
