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break-in yet? She would suggest accompanying him on the trip to the reef, tell him she didn’t want to be alone–whatever it took.
    Emotional blackmail it might be, but she would use fair means or foul to know he wasn’t going alone. If her presence on Leilani offered some measure of protection, then she would confront her fears so he would have someone at his back.
    “All done.”
    She spun around, hand to her throat, heart thumping madly. How could he walk so softly? Nerves jumping, this time her fright was genuine. Served her right.
    “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.” A worried frown puckered his forehead. He was really concerned for her. Maybe she had overplayed the scared role earlier. Guilt shot through her. He didn’t deserve this.
    “Amelie?”
    Stepping close, she rested her head on his broad chest. His heart beat loudly beneath her cheek. Making the most of his proximity, she snuggled closer. He wrapped his arms around her waist and shoulders, stroked her hair.
    Reassured by his touch, she pulled back just far enough to look up into his dark eyes. “Arne?”
    “Yes, darling?” The endearment slipped out, neither of them realizing it.
    “I don’t think I can go back to the cabin yet.”
    “No, I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to be alone, at least until the police have caught the burglar.”
    So far, so good.
    “Can I come on the boat? I feel safe with you.” She snuggled back in to his chest, laying her head on his shoulder and hoping she’d never have to confess her guile.
    * * * *
    She felt so right snuggled in like this. For a few seconds, he closed his eyes and reveled in this stolen moment. The faint scent of her jasmine shampoo tantalized him. It was now his favorite perfume. Jasmine would always make him think of her. If he needed any reminder of this woman resting against his chest.
    How to keep her safe?
    He stroked her back, his mind racing through possibilities. He had to return to the reef early in the morning but he couldn’t leave her alone, here or, heaven forbid, in the wreckage of her place. For his peace of mind, it would be better if she was with him. Then he would know she was safe.
    It sounded like a plan.
    “Maybe that’s the best idea. I can keep an eye on you, and you’ve certainly proved that you have an eye for detail. You might notice something I’ve missed.”
    “Really? You’ll take me with you?”
    “Last night, I thought I might have my work cut out to persuade you to sail with me sometime, but yes. You can help.” He smiled at the light in her eyes. Funny, he’d have sworn she was reluctant last night when he’d offered a trip.
    “Oh, yes, of course I can help. Thank you.” Lightly, she kissed him. He tightened his hold for the briefest moment before releasing her, sliding his hand down her arm until he held only her hand.
    “Come. To bed with you. You look all in and I demand that my crew are up bright and early, ready to swab the deck and clean the galley.”
    Dear heaven, having her on board was going to be sweet torture.
    “Aye, aye, Captain.” She gave him a mock salute.
    Leaving her at her door, he gently pulled it closed, the scent of jasmine lingering as he strolled to his bedroom. Surprisingly, after the strange and challenging events of the last two nights, he fell quickly into a dreamless sleep.
     

     

Chapter 6
     
    Arne pushed her door open, bearing a tray with a cup of tea and a plate of freshly cooked bacon and egg and a croissant. He grinned as he watched her examine the superheroes printed all over the lurid paper serviette.
    “Leftover from Lani’s birthday party. She wanted a Superheroes beach party. I have the beach and a slice of jungle where they could swing from trees and play hide and seek.”
    “Were you Captain Courageous or Superman?” He grinned as she pushed herself into a more comfortable sitting position, pushing her pillow up to rest against the bed head.
    The sheet slipped, revealing a