The Sudden Storm
Tropical weather in the islands is notoriously unpredictable. By midday, the clear blue sky over the eastern ridge began to bruise into deep shades of charcoal.
As Leo drove them back along the coastal trail, distant thunder rumbled across the ocean. The wind picked up suddenly, tearing palm leaves from the trees and whipping sand across the road.
"A squall line is blowing in from the south," Leo shouted over the rising gale, stepping on the accelerator. "We need to get inside before the main surge hits!"
When they reached the main resort grounds, the staff was frantically securing canvas umbrellas and stacking patio furniture. The pool, once a tranquil turquoise oasis, was now churning with gray, choppy waves.
Near the main entrance of the Grand Pavilion, a commotion had drawn a small crowd of stranded guests.
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A large glass patio door had shattered under a sudden gust of wind, scattering shards across the tiled veranda. Standing near the debris, clutching an ankle and crying out in pain, was Victoria Sterling.
Her companion was nowhere to be seen, having retreated inside during the first raindrops. Victoria was trapped against a decorative stone planter, her designer dress soaked, unable to bear weight on her twisted foot while sharp glass littered the floor around her.
