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Diamond Sands Amber walked to the edge of the water, looking out to the clear blue ocean. She had never seen the ocean before. She was in awe of the hugeness. The never ending waves, and the never ending horizon. She had waited her whole life time, it seemed, to be here, in this spot, it had been worth it. She was 25 years old , she had had this view in her mind since she was 16. 9 years of saving and planning and working for this, and it was finally here. She took off her shoes and lifted her dress above her knees, , slowly, she walked into the water, feeling the waves rushing her ankles then her knees and to her thighs, the water was cool, but not as cold as she had imagined. The edges of her dress were getting wet, but it didn't stop her. She walked to just below her waist and let go of her dress, raised her hands above her head, and just started to laugh. "I did it. I'm here, and I'm never going to leave." Amber yelled to the sky. She spun around in a circle and almost fell into the water, but caught herself. She looked around and saw she was alone on the beach. She walked to the sand's edge and sat, wet with salt water. It was a dream come true, it would take a few days for the reality to sink in. Amber sat and watched the sun as it set onto the clear blue water. She watched the sky change colors, and the change in the beaches sands, as the sun set and the colors changed so did the beach. The white sands changed with the sky. Just as the sun set into the horizon, the sands on the beach turned into diamonds glistening in the sand. The shine and sparkles had caught her eye. She picked up some sand in to her hands, and tried to see the diamonds, but once in her hand it faded, no light ..no sparkle..... She put it back down again, so to see that, it wasn't just her imagination. Sandy Point, was just a place on the map for Amber, but it was the right place. A small piece of heaven, in between Key Largo and Key West off the coast of Florida. She had worked for years to get the money to make this career move. Starting out as a waitress, learning everything she could, college courses, on the job training. But looking at the view - every hour, every minute of putting up with stuffy managers and half crazy Chefs was worth it. She was a manager...of a high quality restaurant, in the heart of the florida keys. She was was going to live her dream, finally. Her job included a beach house, owned by the hotel in charge of the beach side restaurant. As long as she had the job, she had the beach house. This was the view from her backyard! Chapter 2 Amber got up from the sandy beach after the sun went down. She had unpacking to do. She hadn't brought much. The beach house had come furnished. But she wanted everything perfect, so she spent hours, unpacking and cleaning and putting everything in its place. Family pictures, clothes , knick-knacks. Even her fine crystal pieces had places. Everything was perfectly displayed. Right down to the porcelain Angel, the one that looked like her sister, Jerilyn. She thought of her sister often, Jeri had always said her dreams would come true . "Well, Jeri, I did it, I'm here. Like you always said I would be. Oh, I wish you were here to see me." Amber picked up the statue and held it in her arms. Looking out the sliding glass doors to the beach, listening to the waves hit the beach. "Maybe you are. You said, all I have to do is believe. I believe you can see me. Really, I do. I hope you're proud of me..... I hope your golden beaches are even more wonderful...." Amber set the angel back in its place. Her sister had died less than a year ago, too young, but there was no changing that. All she could do was keep her in her heart and in her thoughts, that seemed to keep her alive in Amber's mind. She had been a friend to her husband, and she had tried to be a good aunt to her children. But it was Jeri they needed, not her. So eventually, she had to go on with her own life. Always keeping in mind what her sister had told her, "Believe in yourself, Amber. You are strong and smart and kind. You can do anything. All you have to do is believe...believe and work hard at what ever your goal is." Remembering hurt, but somehow gave her strength. Tomorrow she would go to the restaurant. She would see what her future would be like. The people, the place. Tonight, she would sleep, and dream.... dream of a life, a life outside of work. Something she had never had. She had always worked for her goal. Now the goal was in hand, it was time to expand on it. She went to bed, with no real thoughts in mind only, enjoying the sounds of the waves on the sand. Hoping she could wake to see the sunrise. It was going to be fantastic. Chapter 3 Amber was watching the sunset, walking in the sun's rays, along side the tide. Looking at the diamonds dancing in the sand, She watched as her feet made tracks in the sand , lonely tracks, she thought. She looked up and there standing a few feet in front of her was a handsome man. She had never seen him before, if she had, she surely would have remembered. She stopped where she stood, looking at him, wondering where he came from. This was her beach. He walked up to her and took her face in his hand, caressing the side of her face.. she didn't stop him, she didn't say a word, only enjoyed the touch of his hand. He was so handsome, dark tanned body, showing through the wet white gauze shirt. His long blonde hair tied back, and the bluest eyes Amber had ever seen, they were crystal clear blue. He didn't say a word, only took her face and brought it closer to him, she moved closer to him, she could feel the heat from his body, though they weren't touching. Her arms rested at her sides afraid to touch him. He brought her in closer, until she could feel his breath in her ear and he said, "Find me." Amber woke up. Sat up in bed and held her arms ,they were shaking. It had been so real, She couldn't recall a dream so vivid in all her life. , She looked at the clock by her bed it was 2:06 am. She got up and got a cold glass of water from the refrigerator, and tried to go back to sleep. The longer she stayed awake, the fainter the dream got. Eventually she fell back to sleep. It was morning the next time she woke. Too late for the sunrise, she looked out the window and saw the sun in the sky. She wanted to get to the restaurant , to start organizing, and meeting everyone. She was excited, but a little scared too. She had managed restaurant before, but not on this level. She wanted to get comfortable with it before she started working. She was glad she had a week before she officially started there, it would take that long just to brief herself on inventory and invoices. She loved her work. She knew every aspect of the business, from busboy on up. She had earned this, and she was determined to make it. She showered and dressed in jeans and a T-shirt. She walked to the restaurant, it was only a 1/4 mile away. It wasn't open yet, but the front door was unlocked, so she went in. Chapter 4 "I'm sorry miss, we're not open yet, we open at 11:30.", said the young man that met her at the door. "Yes, I know, Is the manager around?" Amber said, looking at him. "He's kind of busy, can I help you." He said blocking her entrance. "My name is Amber Waters, I'm sure he'll see me." She said. Standing directly in front of him. "Well, MS. Waters, if you come back after we open, I'm sure he will." he said in a condescending voice. "I'm sorry, you are?" She said "Pete." "Well, Pete, in a few days , I will be your manager. So if you would please inform Mr. Anderson I am here, he can decide when he will see me." She said, walking past him and sitting in the foyer, by the window. "Yes, Ms. Waters, I'm sorry, of course. I'll be right back." Pete said, not looking at her, he turned and left. A few minutes past and out came Mr. Anderson, with Pete in tow. Amber stood and met him half way. "Ms. Waters, how nice to see you again." He said shaking her hand. "Mr. Anderson, I was hoping to take a look at the place before you opened, but your..assistant here..seems to think you are too busy. Should I come back?" Amber said with disdain in her voice. "Pete, tends to be overprotective, you may learn to appreciate that, Ms. Waters. Please, look around. Any questions you have feel free to ask. I'll be happy to answer any questions you have. That is what transition is all about." "Thank you. Are you looking forward to your promotion, district manager, is quite a handful. This is a beautiful place. I can see why it has done so well. The architecture alone, is magnificent." "Yes, she is beautiful. I will miss her, but I leave her in your capable hands. Treat her right and she will be good to you." They toured the whole place. Mr. Anderson, filled her in on the minor things. Told her of some of the people, and businesses in the area. Took her through the wine cellar and the kitchen. Pete disappeared after just a few minutes. When the restaurant opened, Amber left. The week went by quickly, She had so much to learn. But Mr. Anderson was helpful , and considerate. When the day came to take over the running of the restaurant, she felt comfortable. They had scheduled a meeting of all the staff, to introduce the new Manager. It had gone well, Amber thought. Everyone understood, this was her place, and she made the decisions. Chapter 5 After weeks of work, Amber started to relax. She had succeeded . She could finally enjoy the life she had laid out for herself. She got two nights off a week, which she almost always spent walking on her beach. One night, she had taken a blanket to watch the sunset, she had packed a dinner and a bottle of wine. She loved her beach, seemed no matter how much she watched the sunsets, she never tired of them. She ate and drank and watched the sun go down, she swam a little and came back to lie on her blanket. She had only laid down for a minute it seemed, when, there in the distance, she saw a figure of a man. She sat up and watched as the figure came closer and closer. Finally, with the sun in her eyes, she lifted her hand to shade her eyes and looked at him walking to her. It was that same man. He had on no shirt this time, only drawstring pants, his physic was striking, muscular and well defined, tanned, his hair was wet, and slicked back. She stood up to meet him, and he stopped just before reaching her, She walked to him. He looked at her, and took her hand in his and kissed the palm, and traveled up her arm, Amber stood frozen, he was so hot, he sent a chill through her. She let him kiss her all the way to her shoulder and then to her neck, his breath , so warm and rhythmic., she walked into him, as if he were a part of her, she could feel his other arm move around to the small of her back, taking her to him, so she could feel his body next to hers. He slowly kissed her neck, moving her hair from her shoulder, sweeping it into his hand, slowly he moved his mouth across the side if her neck and to the bottom of her earlobe. Then he stopped and whispered, "Find me." Amber woke on the beach, it was dark. The sun was long gone, and it was cold, from the breeze off the ocean. She had taken the blanket in her sleep and covered her self with it. She sat up , chilled to the bone. Who was this man ? Where did he come from? Why was she dreaming of him? Where could she find him? She got up and walked back to her house and went to bed. Half hoping to dream - and half hoping not to. Amber went to work ,as usual, she had to go early to meet a fisherman, he was to deliver fresh catches from his boat. This had been her idea, one of her first to be used. Buying from local fisherman, having them deliver every couple of days. The restaurant could use the connections into the local market, and the prices were better than from big industry. She was proud of the fact she had thought of it. She got there before anyone had arrived. She busied herself with other work, and waited. She waited long past the time the fisherman was suppose to meet with her. Eventually, She gave up waiting and called the number she had been given, but there was no answer. So she decided to leave. She was about to walk out the back door when suddenly it opened. Amber looked at the man, it was him. The one in her dreams. Only he had a box in his hands. Chapter 6 "Hello, is Mr. Waters here?" "That would be Ms. Waters, I'm she." She said standing there looking at him, almost in a state of shock. He was a walking dream. Just as she remembered in her dreams. But he didn't seem to notice her. "Oh, I'm sorry. Ms. Waters, Arnie said I was to deliver these fish to you. He said he would start a bill, and mail it to you." He said setting the box of fish down on the counter . "Thank you, could you put them in the walk-in please it's right here." She walked over and opened the frig door, he followed and set it inside. "I'm sorry I'm late, engine trouble on the boat, we just got back in a little while ago. I got here as soon as I could." He said standing there, looking at her. He hadn't really stopped to look at her yet. She was beautiful, tall and tanned, blonde hair all the way down her back Slim, but sensual. Her eyes were dark brown, soft, and naive. The innocence in her eyes was amazing to him. "That's all right, Mr...um I'm sorry," She said reaching out her hand to shake his "Morgan, Joshua Morgan." He took her hand, it was strong, but soft. Her strength surprised him. " Mr. Morgan, I am Amber Waters. Nice to meet you." Amber said. "Joshua, or Josh, please Mr. Morgan is my father." He said smiling. He had the most amazing smile, white teeth and dimples that could break any woman's heart. "Well, then, Joshua, I am Amber. Your father, I believe he is the one I've been talking to then?" she said, wondering why she hadn't seen him before. "Yes, that's him. He does the business end, I do the fun part. " He said leaning against the wall by the back door. "The fun part? The fishing you mean? You enjoy it then?" Amber said wanting to know about this handsome stranger that invaded her dreams at night. "Oh, yes, very much. Nothing like being surrounded by nature's beauty." Joshua looked at her . Wondering if she had ever been fishing. "Well, you make it sound wonderful. I'm sorry, I don't mean to keep you. Will you be delivering 2 or 3 times a week?" She said, trying to focus on business. "Well, Dad said 2 for now. Tuesdays and Fridays. If you need more just let him know and we'll arrange it." He said opening the door "Thank you, It was nice to meet you Joshua, I guess I'll see you on Friday then." She said walking behind him. "Friday, it is." He said. Walking out the door, but he stopped half way and turned around. She was right behind him and hadn't expected him to turn around , so when he did he was very close to her. She looked into is eyes for just a second. They were as blue as in her dream. She looked down and backed up. "Um, Amber, This may seem an odd question, but, have you ever been fishing?" He said to her. "Sure, I have. I used to fish with my father when I was a young girl. Trout is my favorite. Grilled over an open fire." Amber said. "Oh, no I mean on the ocean. deep sea fishing." He said. "Oh. No I've never been on a boat. Why?" She asked. "Well, I thought you might want to come fishing with me. You know, check out where you're getting your supplies ." He said trying to approach it from a business standpoint. "Well, I really don't usually go into such detail. I mean I don't go see the cows on the farm." Amber giggled a little bit. "I'm sorry. I just thought you would enjoy it, that's all." He said a bit embarrassed. "I'm sorry. I would like that. Really. It sounds like fun." She said, she didn't mean for him to take it the wrong way. It was a joke. "Really? Great. When is your next day off?" He said with a twinkle in his eye. "Thursday." She said, she couldn't believe she was doing this. She never dated strangers. To be out on a boat with someone she didn't know. It was something she had never thought she would do, but here she was doing it. "Thursday then. Here's the dock number and the name of the boat. We leave port at 4:30 am." He handed her a card. "4:30 ! in the morning?" Amber said. She never got up that early. "Why, what's the matter? Too early for you?" He said smiling. "No.. No of course not. I'll be there. Should I bring anything?" She asked not knowing the proper fishing etiquette. "Just yourself." He said walking out the door. She couldn't believe she did it. She was going to be on a boat, with a man she barely knew. She was excited and a little pensive. Chapter 7 She got up at 3 am Showered, changed intro something comfortable, an old t-shirt cut up the center and tied off at her rib cage. A pair of old cut off jeans, for shorts. She put on her make-up and braided her hair into a long tail in the back. She looked in the mirror. "I look like a bum." She said slapping the sides of her thighs, with her fingers. She looked at her watch, it was after 4. She didn't have time to change. She grabbed her purse and keys and left for the pier. She walked down the dock looking for slip 36. She saw all the boats lined up. They were all different. She was anxious. She found the slip , there was a big boat, called The Big Blue. It was beautiful. White and blue. Funny, she thought it didn't look like a fishing boat. Where were the nets and big crane thing. "Hello, anybody in there?" Amber yelled. "I'm here." She heard a voice. But couldn't see anyone. Then all of the sudden, ahead popped out from below deck. It was Joshua, he came on deck and helped her on board. "Are you ready to go? With any luck, we can watch the sun come up without land in sight." He said looking at her. She was so beautiful, even in the torn and worn clothes. "Sure. That sounds great." She said, looking around the boat. He started the engine, and untied the bow and stern. They were off into the horizon. It was still dark , but the sky was starting to lighten, waiting for the sun to arrive. When it did arrive there was no land in sight. It was wonderful. She loved the sunset, but the sunrise seemed even more unbelievable. "This is magnificent. I can see why you love it." Amber said looking at him lifting a small net. He tied it to a pulley and then tossed it in the water, the boat was moving slowly. "It is wonderful isn't it? Still amazes me, and I've been doing this for over ten years. It's a view I will probably never tire of. I love it out here. No phones, no people, no hassles Just Nature in all it's beauty." He said stopping his work and looking at the water. "So this is how you fish. No poles?" Amber said. "Poles sure I have poles. I use them sometimes. I'll get some out and I'll teach you about deep sea fishing, it's not like trout fishing. Much more fun." "Oh, really. Well, may I be the judge of that?" Amber said looking at him with a smile. "Trust me, you'll agree." Joshua said going to get the poles that were hanging on the side of the upper deck. He set up a smaller one and baited it for her. Handed it to her and then stepped behind her to show her how to cast. He put his arms around her, she couldn't shake the feeling of familiarity. The heat coming off of his body. The feel of his skin against her arms. She took a breath. "Just throw it out and let go of the reel , don't start to reel in until I tell you , okay?" He said behind her. Holding on to her arms with both of his arms he moved her arms to a pattern of movement. She giggled a little, she felt like a child being taught. "Okay, like this.." She cast and it landed in the water with barely a splash, the reel kept spinning as it sunk into the water. He let go of her and walked around to the side of her and looked at her face. She was grinning from ear to ear. She was thoroughly enjoying herself. "You 've done this before. You lied." He said looking at her, the cast was excellent. "No, really I swear. Oh, did I mention fly fishing too. Casting was always my favorite part. Though this pole is much heavier." She looked at him laughing. "You should see your face. Joshua, I surprised you didn't I?" "Yea, a little." He said shaking his head. "Good." Amber said. She hated being taken for a dumb blonde. "Here let me get you a chair to sit on. Now it's just a waiting game." Joshua left and was back in a flash with two chairs. She sat down and he sat beside her They sat there for a while waiting for a bite. They talked about fishing growing up. Their families, school experiences. Life experiences. Suddenly Amber jumped up, yanking on the pole. Chapter 8 "I got one!! I got one!!! Oh, wow this is so cool." She said jumping up and down with excitement. "Okay, now just reel it in really slowly. There's no telling what you have on your hook. So take it slow." She reeled it in slowly. It had alot of fight, it took a long time. Finally it was close enough to see it. Joshua looked over the side of the boat, and said, "Okay, Amber looks like you caught yourself a shark." "A shark, oh no, quick, cut the line." "What !? Why? Sharks are good eating. This guy has to be 4 foot. He's a great catch you should be happy." "Really? How are we going to get him in the boat? " Amber asked, she had never caught anything bigger than a few inches, this thing was huge to her. "I'll get my club. You just keep the line a little taut." He said. "Club, what do you need a club for?" Amber asked. "I have to kill it and gut it before we bring it on board. If I don't it could really do some damage." He said taking the club over the side, Amber turned her head and listened to the sounds. Next thing she knew she had turned to see her catch sprawled on deck. It was huge, she couldn't believe she had caught that. "Oh, my God, look at it. it's huge. I caught that?" "Yep, It's not huge, as sharks go , but it's definitely a nice one. about 4 and a half feet I'd say. Fun, wasn't it?". He looked at her looking at the shark, The shine on her face made the whole trip worth it. She was amazing. Beautiful , smart and strong. "Oh, yes, fun! You were right. Much better fishing!" She said looking at him. "Well, better get this guy to the fish bin. " He said picking up the fish and taking it to the other side of the boat. He put the gear away, and finished his net gathering. Closed down the bin and salted it. He started the engines and started back to shore. Amber came up beside him, while he was driving. "Thank you Joshua, it was a wonderful day. I haven't had this much fun, since I can't remember when." "You're welcome. It was a good days work. I enjoyed the company. Any time you want to join my crew I would be glad to have you." He said looking at her. They hadn't gone far when the engine stopped. "What's the matter?" Amber asked. "Oh, it's the engine again, been giving me problems. Shouldn't take long." He went down below deck, and started to check out the problem. Amber took one of the chairs and sat down, watching the sunset. It was even more wonderful out here in the quiet of the ocean. She was deep in thought when Joshua came back up . He looked at her without her noticing he was there. She was such a vision. He could look at her everyday, and never get tired of it. "Um, I can fix it. But it's going to take awhile. I'm sorry Amber. I have some food, and a kitchen down stairs if you would like, I can fix you something to eat." He said wiping his hands on a rag. "Oh, that sounds good, but only if you join me. " "Okay, but then I have to get back to the engine." "I can help, I'm pretty good in a kitchen" She offered. "No, you just enjoy the view. I'll be back in a few minutes." He said turning around going back downstairs. He was gone for a little while . When he came back up he had two plates with Sautéed fish, and rice and baby carrots, with a bottle of White wine all on a tray. He set it down beside her and pulled out a blanket from under his arm. He set up a picnic, right there on deck. Wine glasses and all. "Joshua, this looks wonderful. You didn't have to go to so much trouble." "Hey, no trouble, you caught the fish." He said handing her a glass of wine. "Really, this is my shark?" Wow, it looks much better this way." She said looking at it. It was a beautiful setup. The restaurant would be proud to serve this, she thought. "Yup, that's him. I just wanted to try to make up for the delay. I hope you like it But first, a toast." He said lifting his glass in the air. "A toast? Okay. To what?" She asked. "To ...watching our first sunrise and sunset together. May there be many more." He looked at her and touched her glass with his., she didn't say anything, but she drank to the toast. Chapter 9 They finished dinner and spent time talking. they were enjoying their time together, more than either thought they would, even with the engine problems, they both had had the most wonderful day. They sat across from each other , and slowly through the course of dinner and the wine ended up sitting next to each other. The sun had set and the sky was dark. The stars were out and so big, Amber was getting a stiff neck just trying to see them all. "It is just so beautiful out here, I can't get over the view. It's always changing into something more wonderful." Amber said looking around the sky "Yea, I know, amazing, isn't it?" Joshua said, not looking at the sky, looking at her. His view was even more amazing, he thought. "I think for the first time, I envy someone else's job. I could live out here. You are very lucky." Amber said still looking at the sky. Then slowly, when he didn't answer, looked at him. He was staring at her, he wasn't saying a word, she could swear she was in her dreams again. He moved in closer, and slowly, leaned over to kiss her. She moved in to meet his kiss. They met, together, and the warmth was overpowering. He brought her in closer to him and she melted to his body. He held her so tight around her waist there was no space between their hearts. Without a thought, her arms wrapped around his shoulders, and his around her waist. Amber's heart was beating so fast, she thought it would hop out of her chest. They stopped briefly, and just looked at each other. Joshua brushed the hair from her shoulder, and kissed her neck. She went limp, His touch was too overpowering. She started to lean back, Joshua caught her and slowly laid her on the deck of the boat, slowly, lying beside her. She turned on her side toward him, and he toward her, they held each other, caressing each other. He kissed her neck and shoulder. She kissed his chest, and shoulders. Their arms were engulfing each other. Finally, Amber looked at him, and stopped his kisses. He looked at her, and without a word, back up from his advances. "I've never done this before. " Amber said looking him in the eyes. "I don't do this my self, I know we just met, but I feel like I've known you forever, Amber. I don't know why but, I'm connected to you." He said, wondering if she felt the same way. "No , I mean, I've never made love before. " She said looking down, away from his eyes. "Amber... We can stop, anytime you want. We can stop now. It's okay." Joshua, was shocked, he had no idea. He wanted her , but not at her expense. "No, I don't want to stop. I just thought you should know, that all." She said, finally looking at him. "Oh, okay.. Um, wait here..just for a minute ..okay.. I'll be right back. Just stay there..don't move... I'll be right back." He got up and went down stairs into the lower deck Amber sat there, waiting. She wasn't afraid, she knew this was right. She wanted to make love to Joshua, she didn't understand it. But she felt it. She had waited a long, long time for this feeling. She thought for a while it would never come. But with Joshua, it was different. Maybe this was her dream. Joshua came back up with a couple of blankets and pillows, and a small lantern, which he hung in the corner. "Don't light it, Joshua, I like the stars" She said. Joshua came back to her and kissed her on the forehead. He put the blankets down and the pillows below her head. He looked at her With a question in his eyes. She lifted her hand to his face and stroked his cheek, then taking his face and bringing it in closer to hers, and finally, kissing him a deep wanting kiss. One that felt so right, neither could deny. "Amber....." Joshua said, not really knowing what to say. "Shhh. Don't say anything. Just kiss me. " She said , leaning into him. Joshua, lay down beside her on his stomach, looking at her face and kissing her. He untied her shirt and she lifted it over her head, He looked at her naked body and caressed her bare skin, She unbuttoned his shirt and took it off his back, his pants were to follow, each quietly helping the other. She felt his body and the energy flowing through him, he, totally enthralled with her beauty. In the dark of the night, in the middle of the ocean, they made love. Under the stars that consumed the night sky, so did their passion consume each other. They were complete, it was a feeling neither had ever experienced, but had always yearned for. They didn't speak. There was no need for words, they each seemed to know the other's need and desire. Finally, they were exhausted, each trying to catch their breath. They lay on the deck of the boat, holding each other. Watching the stars, lighting up the night sky. "Amber, Are you all right? I have to fix the engine. You have to get back to shore ." Joshua said, not wanting to let her go. "I'm fine, really and I know, you're right. This just feels so good. " She said, holding onto him. "You have no idea how good. But still, I have to get up.... Really." He said lifting her head to look at her face. "Okay. How long will it take, and what time is it anyway. "she looked at her watch, it was 2:06am. She jumped up with a jolt. "Oh, my God." Her dream, she woke at 2:06 from her dream. "What's the matter?" Joshua looked at her worried. "Nothing..nothing it's just very late that's all. You're right, you should fix it. I have to get home. I have work tomorrow." She said getting her clothes together. He got up and put his pants on and headed down to the engine, looking back at her on his way out of sight. The time scared her for some reason. It was just too coincidental. She worried while Joshua was gone. When he came back up with a smile, she felt much better. "All fixed. Let's just give it a try." He said , walking up the stairs, he stopped long enough to kiss her on his way to the starter. The engine started and he headed toward home, he motioned Amber to join him up front. She did. They were quiet most of the way home, When the lights from the land were upon them, Joshua, stopped the boat. "Are you sure you want to go home? I can gas it up and we can go to Jamaica, or Bermuda, anywhere you want." He said with a smile, kissing her first on the head and then, deeply and passionately on the mouth. She returned his kisses and then looked at him. "Yea, pretty sure. Ask me again tomorrow though, okay? Never know when I may change my mind." She said with a smile. "Okay, then. I'll ask again tomorrow." He said starting the engines again. They docked the boat, and said their good-byes. It was early morning by this time, the sun was aching to rise again. Amber went home with a feeling of contentment she had never felt before. Why had this man come into her life? She didn't know, she didn't care. She just knew for once in her life...she was going to enjoy it. Chapter 10 She had barely closed her eyes, and again she was on her beach watching the sunset. Suddenly, out beyond the shores edge she saw a figure. It was Joshua walking toward her in the water, she ran to meet him, the water was cold. He looked at her, slowly walked to her, took her face in his hands and kissed her gently on the cheek down to her neck. His hands, were around her waist pulling her closer, she sank into him. Slowly they sank to the water's edge lying in the sand they caressed each other stroking the skin and taking each breath together, then suddenly, Joshua stopped and whispered in Amber's ear, "Find me." Amber woke, she had only been asleep a few minutes, her heart was pounding, there was a fear, she couldn't explain. She got up and looked out the window to the beach, the sun was coming up, but she needed sleep before work, so she put the dream out of her mind and went back to bed. In the coming weeks, Joshua and Amber spent alot of time together. She told him about the changes she was making in the restaurant, using local business in conjunction with the restaurant, menus, Contacts she had made in the business arena, and how to make Chateau Briane for two. Joshua taught her about fishing and navigation. What longitude and latitude was, and how to use it. He taught her about the water currents and the fishing routes of different kinds of fish. She told him about her sister's death, and how it had affected her. He introduced her to his father, and step mother. She told him about her goals, and he told her about his dreams. When they were alone, they would let go of any thing the world would throw at them. They enjoyed each other, the love they would make, only grew more and more intense. The more they knew about each other the more they wanted to explore. It was as if they had always been. Chapter 11 Amber was at work, When Arnie, Joshua's father came. She was in her office, doing paper work. She looked up when he said her name. "Amber, it's Joshua..." He said, looking pale. "Arnie, what's the matter, you look terrible. Here sit down." She said showing him to a chair, he sat. He looked at her and shook his head and rub his forehead with the palm of his hands. "Amber, they can't find The Big Blue. The Coast guard got a call from Josh, saying something about a fire in the engine, they lost contact. They've sent a boat out looking for him, at the last coordinance he gave, but they can't find anything, Amber, he's lost." He said looking at her. She just sat for a minute. She didn't say a word. "Amber, Honey, did you hear me?" He said touching her hand. She sat on the edge of her desk and pulled away from his touch. "I heard you Arnie. How...How long...has he been missing?" She said, trying to take in all the information. "A few hours. They've been searching a few hours." He said. "A few hours? That's all? God Arnie you had me scared to death. That engine's been giving him trouble for ages, you know that. He's probably just off course or something. The Coast Guard will find him, probably any minute now." She said, trying to convince herself and him at the same time. She knew this wasn't that easy. "Maybe Amber , maybe. Anyway I just thought you would want to know." He said standing up. "Thank you, Arnie. I'll finish up here, and meet you at your house. I'll be there in just a little bit, you'll see He's fine. He's fine." She said showing him the door. "Okay, Amber. See you in a little while." He said, giving her a hug. As soon as Arnie left , Amber was on the phone to the Coast Guard. "Hello, yes, Are you the one in charge of the search for The Big Blue?..... ....I see.....yes, I understand.....Were there any signs at all........You will keep searching?.........But he could still be out there.............. But.....You have to keep searching........Yes, I understand about the sharks and...........NO...Tell them to keep searching...He's there somewhere......I'll be at his father's house..... Yes...You can reach us there......Thank you...Thank you." She hung up the phone and told her assistant to take care of things she had to leave. She went directly to Arnie's house. They waited by the phone, while they waited Arnie and his wife brought out the photo albums and reminisced about when Joshua was young. Hours went by Finally there was a knock on the door. Arnie got up to answer it. In came a tall man in a uniform, he stood with his hat in his hands, looking at them all one by one. "I'm Sgt. Keith Alliston. I'm sorry to inform you we found wreckage of The Big Blue, there was no sight of any survivors. We are calling off the search in the morning if there is no sign of your son. They will continue to search through the night, up to 18 hours but after that, I'm afraid that's all we can do. I'm Sorry" He said, Everything after that was a jumble in Amber's head. She vaguely remembered saying goodnight, or even driving home. Chapter 12 Amber walked into her house and sat on the couch. She looked at her Angel. She got up and lifted it to her, looking at it. She started to cry, she sat on the floor, and cried until she couldn't breath. She was completely exhausted, she lay on the floor curled up into a ball holding the angel to her heart. She closed her eyes and thought about Joshua, going through everything they had done together, playing scenes in her mind. Suddenly, she heard her sister's voice. So clear it was was if she were right beside her. "All you have to do is believe, Amber, believe and work hard for your goals, what ever they are." Amber sat up and looked around the room, but there was no one there. She must have fallen asleep. She would try to rest, she thought, tomorrow would be a long day. She went to her bed, but didn't sleep. She only thought of Joshua, out there in the cold night water, wet and surrounded by danger. Nature's beauty could be deadly, if you got too close. She thought. But she would wait until the break of day. When the sky started to lighten, waiting for the sun, Amber was on the phone. Talking to anyone who would listen. "No, you don't understand.....he's not dead......I would know if he were dead.....I don't care what you THINK......... no....You're making a big mistake....he isn't dead.........fine... I'll find him myself. " She hung up the phone and in an instant was back on it again. "Hi, Jake..it's Amber...listen I want to rent your chopper...for the whole day......I understand that...... I'm sorry this is an emergency......We'll work something out....... No the whole day.....just me.......Okay I'll meet you at the airfield.....Jake?.....Thank you." She hung up the phone and Then picked it up again. Dialed Arnie. "Arnie..........Yes, I know....No they're wrong......He's not dead.......Arnie I'm going to look for him.....A friend has a helicopter, he's taking me up.... I need the coordinance of the wreckage........ You're sure..... okay...I'll send word as soon as I find him.....It's going to be okay Arnie." She wrote down the information and grabbed her purse and headed out the door. Within the hour she was up in the air. Jake the pilot had told her the chances were slim, but she wouldn't listen. She told him where to start looking. He flew to the last coordinance given. They proceeded to search from there. She tried to remember what Joshua had said about the currents in the area, Jake had maps , he gave her to look at. She adjusted the path with the currents and the air. Hoping. They searched and searched for what seemed like forever. There was no sign. "Amber we have to head back soon, We're low on fuel. Five minutes is all I give you. " Jake said pointing to the fuel gage. "Jake...Jake!!!! Over there! Look over there!! Go closer!!" Amber said pointing. Jake could only see a speck of something. He flew closer. "It's Joshua!!!! Oh, God, Thank you !! Jake..It's Joshua!!!! Can you get him?" Amber said almost jumping out of her seat. "Okay, Amber...I can get in close enough, but you're going to have to get him." "Okay, Okay...." She undid her belt and went to the back and opened the sliding door. Jake lowered the chopper to just inches above the water, Joshua was swimming toward them. Amber jumped in to the water and swam to Joshua. He was on a small piece of wood, he looked so tired. She gabbed ahold of him and together they swam to the chopper , she helped him in and then, jumped into chopper. She looked Joshua over from head to toe, he seemed okay just exhausted, and very cold, She took a blanket from the back and covered him and held him on the floor . He looked up at her and smiled. "Amber...Amber..." He said too tired to talk. "Shh..I'm here. You're going to be fine." "Amber...you found me. How?" He said. "I used everything you taught me, see I do listen, " She kissed him and snuggled closer to him to get him warm. "Jake get on the radio and tell the Guard we found him, tell them to call Arnie." Amber said, Jake Nodded and got on the radio. "You're going to be all right , Honey. You're going to be fine." She took off his shirt, and wrapped herself around him, he was shaking, but he felt so good. They flew him to the coast and there an ambulance took them to the hospital. They kept him over night for observation, but was released the next morning. Amber never left his side. He barely took his eyes from her, except for when he slept, which he did alot of. Chapter 13 "You had us scared half to death kid." Arnie said when he saw Joshua. "They had given up on you, ya know...Amber didn't. She saved your life, ya know." He said hugging Amber with one arm. "She's pretty stubborn, that's for sure Pop." Joshua said, winking at her. "Alright enough of this, you get ready to go, I'll be back in a bit." Amber said and walked out of his room. She sat down, and saw a nurse walking by, she stopped her. "Do you have a Chapel here?" Amber asked. "Yes, it's upstairs and to the left out of the elevator." She said "Thank you." Amber got up and went to the elevator. She went to the Chapel and lit a candle, and knelt in one of the pews. "Thank you. God. For saving him. Thank you Jeri......for...everything." Amber had never been very big on religion, and her prayers were probably lacking, but she said them anyway, with her whole heart. They took him to Amber's house to recuperate. He and Amber sat on the beach and watched the sunset. "Amber, I love you." Joshua said laying on the blanket beside her. He didn't look at her, he was on his back looking at the stars. "I know, Joshua, I love you too." She said in the same position. "Amber, I've never said that to anyone in my life. I thought about that when I was in the water. How I had never said that to you. I wondered,...I hoped that you knew. But still, I regretted never saying it." "Oh, Joshua, I know you love me. I've felt it for a long time. You never had to say it." Joshua, sat up and lifted her He positioned himself directly in front of her only inches away, He took her hands in his and kissed her gently, he looked down and then back to her face again. "Amber I love you. With everything I am , I love you." He said. "I love you too Joshua, with all that I am, and all that I will ever be." She said Taking his face in her hands, Softly kissing his lips and pulling his hair back behind his shoulder with her finger tips, She moved closer to him so that he could feel the heat from her body. Joshua, held her around her waist and brought her closer so there was no space between them. She settled onto his lap, and they began to make love. Amber looked at him and the ocean, in the light of the full moon and the reflections from the water she looked at her beach and saw diamonds in the sand.