Chapter 30: The Third Wheel

Chapter 30: Chapter 30: The Third Wheel

Lunch began once everyone arrived.

From Britney and Edward’s conversation, Irene pieced together what happened after the plane landed.

Staff handled every transfer and detail, requiring no planning from her. No wonder she didn’t recall the process when she woke.

They finished lunch without rushing.

She picked up a newspaper the butler had left in the living room.

"I remember when my film first released, I had to search the whole paper for one small review. Now my face is on the front page. I should thank our superstar Britney for the assist."

In the center of the paper, besides Irene smiling, Britney crying was the focus, taking most of the space.

The headline read "Hollywood’s Crossover Best Friends."

It described moments in Irene and Britney’s friendship, written in sentimental language.

"Let me see." Britney took the paper.

"Who took this photo of me?" She set the paper down hard after seeing it.

"Let me see, you can’t look bad," Edward said, putting an arm around her shoulder. He flipped to the front page and laughed. "Pfft."

"Ah, you’re laughing too," Britney said, pulling her arm away.

Edward followed. "I’m not laughing at you. It’s cute. Your eyes and nose are red from crying, like a rabbit. It’s endearing."

Irene watched the two interact, questioning whether inviting Britney on vacation was wise.

She coughed twice to get their attention.

Neither looked at her.

Only when Irene stood to return to her room did Britney follow and ask, "Irene, where are you going?"

"I saw a pool downstairs. I’m going to swim."

"I’ll go too. Are there swimsuits here?" She didn’t specify who she asked, but everyone knew.

Edward answered quickly.

"Yes, everything’s ready. Do you know how to swim? I can teach you. I was swim team captain in high school."

"Really? Then show me."

"I will."

Irene walked to her room expressionless, thinking, I’m the third wheel here.

After changing, Irene followed the butler to the pool. White tile at the edge blended with the sea, creating the illusion of swimming in open water.

On the way, she saw a nearby island, larger and busier. The butler said that was Maui, home to the Granvireya Hotel.

The Granvireya was known on Maui for its scale, art collection, and facilities.

Built in a Tuscan palace style, it functioned as a gallery, holding millions in art and antiques, including works by Dalí and Botero.

Its notable features were the "Canyon Waterway Network" and Hawaii’s largest spa. Both were worth visiting.

Irene asked why he spoke highly of it.

Edward’s father and the Granvireya’s investors were friends, which was how they bought an island nearby.

Also, when their chefs weren’t serving the family, they worked at the hotel. Even temporary staff were from the hotel.

Irene noted Edward’s family’s resources again, wondering when she might reach that level.

She removed her cover-up and entered the water, swimming two strong laps.

Britney and Edward arrived after.

"Boss, if you’re bored, tell the butler. You can book a spa, go fishing, diving, or use the jet skis and seaplane. Don’t hesitate. Treat it like your place."

Edward clearly didn’t want Irene to feel left out, but Hawaii offered plenty of activities.

At four in the afternoon, the sun had barely moved west.

Sunlight scattered on the sea like silver.

The butler arranged a jet ski instructor. After two laps and instructions on the controls, Irene managed on her own. She put on a life jacket and goggles and went out.

This area was a designated jet ski zone for the nearby islands, so others were riding too.

It was summer, so many families with children were present. Plenty of beginners were on the water, making an experienced young rider like Irene noticeable.

Sea breeze moved through Irene’s short hair. She sat on the jet ski, wet hair on her cheeks, tilted her head back and breathed, enjoying the moment.

Then another jet ski approached through the water and stopped beside her.

The rider removed his goggles, revealing a defined face. Blue eyes looked at her with apology.

"Hope I didn’t startle you," his voice was low.

"I saw someone alone and wanted to say hello. I’m Henry, here with my family."

Irene looked at him and nodded with a small smile. "Hello, Henry. I’m Irene."

He seemed young; the youth hadn’t left his face. His shoulders were broad but still lean. Seawater ran down his dark, slightly curly hair onto his tanned chest, reminiscent of a school athlete.

He was attractive and fit, matching her taste. He looked familiar, but Irene didn’t pursue the thought.

His gaze was direct, curious and appreciative, which she didn’t mind. She thought of Britney and Edward’s insular dynamic; maybe she should find company to explore Hawaii.

"The water here is nice, especially the coral near the Granvireya," Henry said naturally, like they were acquaintances.

"Their hotel also has an antique exhibit with shipwreck artifacts and old ship models. If you’re interested..."

He paused, his eyes bright as he invited her.

"If you’re interested, I’d be happy to show you tomorrow."