The water was warm and the sun was nearing its midday high. Jean and Marie frolicked like children before enjoying a leisurely lunch of dried fish, cheese, and wine. 

“My Grandpapa used to tell me stories of his exploits with that pirate Montbars while drinking rum and coconut water,” sighed Marie. “I wish to taste one of those drinks tonight for the first time.”

Junior approached then, providing a brief report of the morning’s work, and sitting for a spell to eat. 

“We’ve about concluded the harvest on this side of the beach,” Junior said, hurrying to eat and rejoin the team. “I’m taking half the men to the east, and Hector is going west with the rest.”

“We should be back by four to begin loading the tenders. The captain says we’ll anchor here overnight and depart first thing in the morning,” Junior concluded. Just as quickly as he’d arrived, he was leaving once more to continue his mission.  

Jean and Marie watched as the cohort disappeared out of site once more.

“I suppose we have the beach to ourselves, Jean” said Marie softly, shooting him seductive eyes.

Jean stood, extended his hand, and offered her an afternoon swim.

“Only if you make love to me in that pristine blue warm water, Jean.”

They spent the next hour warming their bodies under both the afternoon sun and each other. Finally collapsing back under the shade, Marie panted, “What a wonderful day it is on this piece of paradise.”

Around the eastern point of the island however, the seemingly perfect oasis was about to be shattered by a dangerous discovery.