Whisper Island: Psychological Thriller Suspense by N F Webber

Author:N F Webber [Webber, N F]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Media Publishers Ltd
Published: 2024-04-22T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter thirty-one

Ella

‘Welcome to paradise!’ I call out, waving my arms for the others to follow me to the house. Noah joins me and we’re both electrified with anticipation and a world of hope that we can all resolve our differences. Charlotte’s blue eyes sparkle. She’s pulled her sandy blonde hair into a small ponytail, which swings as she walks towards us. Sebastian’s usually determined gaze seems more subdued, the weight of his illness apparent even from a distance. Henry is smiling but seems a little remote. I disregard him. Thankfully, I don’t have to care about what Mr. Williams thinks and feels. None of my business.

‘So good to finally be here!’ Charlotte calls out, her elegant heels clacking against the planks. ‘This place is amazing!’

Coconut palms stretch high above our heads, their fronds swaying gently in the onshore breeze, casting dappled shadows on the white sand below. The luxury holiday house looms in front of us. It’s an impressive structure made of bamboo, thatch, and wood, designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding tropical landscape.

‘Come on,’ I urge, leading them towards the house. ‘I’ll show you around.’

The only difference I notice in Sebastian’s short sentences is a new nervousness which loiters under the surface of his words. I guess his health has taken a hit during the long arduous journey to get here.

‘Sebastian, I think you’ll love the view from the terrace.’ I hope to lift his spirits.

‘Sounds great.’ He manages a weak grin.

‘Charlotte, there’s a beautiful cove nearby. It’s an excellent spot for sunbathing and swimming,’ Noah adds, knowing her fondness for the beach.

‘Can’t wait,’ Charlotte’s eyes light up at the prospect.

As everyone explores our new surroundings, Noah and Sebastian find themselves drawn to the kitchen, discussing the meals they’ll prepare together during our stay. It’s a relief to know I can keep out of the kitchen. Let the holiday begin! Immediately, I consider those words and memories of Kirsten crush my enthusiasm. Lauren’s face also flashes through my mind. I must consciously stop, block the thoughts of them both to prevent myself from plunging into darkness. Noah’s laughter interrupts and grabs my attention.

‘What about the time we cooked paella?’ Noah asks, chuckling at the memory.

‘Ugh, don’t remind me,’ Sebastian replies, his laughter mixed with a hint of a cough. ‘We used way too much chilli.’

‘I’ve got your favourite beer, Henry,’ Noah glances across at Henry’s silent face. ‘Why don’t you guys unpack, and I’ll meet you back on the veranda to kick off our island indulgence.’

Meanwhile, Charlotte and I leave the men and take a stroll along the beach, marvelling at the calm swimming areas in the bay, protected by expansive coral reefs under the water’s surface. The relaxing sound of waves lapping at the shoreline is a balm as we wander in bare feet, basking in this island paradise.

‘Such a peaceful place,’ Charlotte sighs, taking in the surrounding beauty.

‘No doubt,’ I agree, feeling a sense of contentment that’s been absent recently. We both clutch our sandals and stroll along the warm water’s edge.

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