Downtime

The next day at the conference, Amelia and Dane led the discussions with poise and expertise. The sessions were engaging, and their presentations were met with enthusiasm and interest from the attendees. Amelia noticed that Dane and Sophie were back to their professional selves, their interactions devoid of the casual familiarity she had seen during their exploration of Rome. It was as if a switch had been flipped, and the boundaries between personal and professional were firmly reinstated. She felt a sense of pride and accomplishment as the conference drew to a close. The event had been a huge success, showcasing Smiths Co.'s innovative strategies and cementing their reputation in the industry. The positive feedback and networking opportunities were invaluable, and Amelia felt a renewed sense of purpose in her role.

To celebrate the successful conference, Dane had sponsored a fancy dinner at a renowned Italian restaurant. The atmosphere was lively, with colleagues and new acquaintances mingling and enjoying the exquisite cuisine. Despite the celebratory mood, Amelia found it challenging to keep the vivid fantasies from the previous night out of her mind. Every time she looked at Dane, the images of him with Sophie resurfaced, and she struggled to maintain her composure.

During the dinner, Dane announced that they still had a couple of days left in Italy before they had to return home. "Do you have any plans?" he asked, looking at Amelia and Sophie.

Sophie, with a bright smile, suggested, "How about a beach day? It would be nice to relax and enjoy the sun."

Everyone agreed enthusiastically to the idea. "I know a private beach not far from here," Dane said. "I'll rent a boat, and we can spend the day there."

As the evening progressed, Amelia tried to focus on the present moment and the company around her. She engaged in conversations and enjoyed the delicious food, but her thoughts kept drifting back to the private beach and the possibilities it held. When the dinner ended, the trio agreed to meet in the hotel lobby the next morning. As they parted ways for the evening, Amelia's mind was a whirlwind of anticipation and curiosity.

Back in her hotel room, Amelia prepared for bed, her thoughts racing. As she lay in bed, Amelia envisioned the sun-soaked beach, the sound of the waves, and the warm sand beneath her feet. The prospect of seeing Dane and Sophie in swimwear added to her excitement. She imagined the three of them relaxing on the boat, enjoying the secluded beach.