The trip to Azure Island was made in silence, as both of them had woken up to the loud ringing of Jax's phone announcing the arrival of Derek. The silence deepened once they were on the road, the only sounds being the hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of wind outside the car windows.
Ruan's mind wandered back to the previous night—how he had shut Jax out and ignored his question. Now, it seemed like Jax was ignoring him too.
He glanced at him, but Jax's eyes were fixed on the scenery outside the car window. They had barely exchanged any words all morning. Ruan felt a pang of guilt for shutting him out and not addressing the tension between them. He wanted to speak to Jax, to clear the air, but he didn't know what to say.
What would he even say? That he was struggling to open up about the demons tormenting him because he doesn't trust anyone? That being around Jax 24/7 was going to drive him crazy, especially if they weren't going to talk at all?
Ruan sighed inwardly and turned his gaze to the other window, watching the passing landscape. The silence between them was starting to feel oppressive, but he didn't know how to break it.
A few minutes later, lost in thought, Ruan heard Jax murmur beside him. He turned and looked at him, his gaze falling on Jax's sleeping face. Jax's neck moved slightly as he shifted, his head tilted.
Ruan's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled. Without thinking, he shifted closer, his movements gentle so as not to disturb him. Carefully, he placed Jax's head on his shoulder, feeling the warmth of his body seep into his own.
Ruan's smile deepened. He was content simply being near Jax, surrounded by the soothing sound of his gentle breathing. He remained awake throughout the ride, his gaze drifting occasionally to Jax's peaceful face. It wasn't until they neared the island that Jax stirred, stretching his arms above his head before turning to look at Ruan.
Their eyes met, and Ruan offered a gentle smile. "Welcome back."
Jax raised his head from Ruan's shoulder and rubbed his eyes, yawning. "How long was I out?" he asked, his voice husky from sleep.
Ruan shrugged. "Throughout the ride."
Jax's expression turned apologetic. "I'm so sorry about that. I shouldn't have fallen asleep on your shoulder, and—"
"Don't apologize. You deserved the sleep," Ruan replied softly.
"Oh. Thank you," Jax murmured and glanced out the window. Then he turned back. "Are we there yet?"
Derek, who had been quietly driving, answered, "We're entering the island now."
At the mention of it, Ruan turned toward the window, taking in the breathtaking view. The road to Azure Island zigzagged its way up a steep hill. The landscape was lush and green, with tropical plants and trees spilling over the road's edges. As they climbed higher, the ocean came into view—sparkling turquoise water stretching out to the horizon.
He rolled down the car window, letting the warm island breeze rush in, carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers.
Ruan breathed in deeply, feeling a flicker of hope. Maybe—just maybe—this rehab would work for him after all.
As they reached the entrance of the island, Derek slowed the car to a stop in front of a stunning wooden gate adorned with intricate carvings of seashells and tropical flowers. The gate was flanked by two imposing stone pillars, each topped with a gleaming silver crown in the shape of a mermaid.
A uniformed guard emerged from a sleek modern guardhouse and approached the car.
"Gentlemen, I'm afraid you can't bring the vehicle in," he said apologetically. "Azure Island is a private beach, and we maintain a car-free environment to ensure our guests' safety and tranquility."
Derek nodded understandingly and pulled over to the side. The three of them climbed out and unloaded the luggage from the car's boot.
"Make sure to call the CEO. Have a wonderful stay on the island," Derek said, then got into the car and drove away.
"This place is beautiful," Jax exclaimed.
Ruan nodded in agreement.
Before them stood a breathtaking sign that read "Azure Island" in elegant, cursive script. The letters were made of polished silver and shimmered in the sunlight.
As they stepped closer, a small LED sign lit up below, displaying a personalized welcome: "Welcome Ruan and his Manager."
Ruan frowned when he saw the sign, not expecting Lucas to label Jax like that. Jax had his own identity aside from being just his manager. He wanted to complain, but Lucas wasn't there, and Jax didn't look affected by it. He wished he had Jax's patience—because there was no way he would accept that.
"How are we getting onto the island with all our luggage?" Jax asked the guard.
The guard pointed toward a sleek silver buggy that had just pulled up. A man stepped out, dressed in the same uniform as the guard, and approached them.
"This is Cal, your guide and escort during your stay on Azure Island," the guard introduced, handing Cal a small tablet with their itinerary.
Cal smiled and extended his hand. "Welcome, gentlemen! I'll be taking care of you during your stay. Please allow me to introduce your ride," he gestured toward the buggy.
Ruan's eyes widened. He had always wanted to ride in a buggy, but the public eye never gave him the chance.
"This looks cool," he exclaimed.
"I see you love vehicles," Cal chuckled. "We'll be riding in style on this beautiful island." He gestured again to the buggy. "It's equipped with everything we need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Shall we get started?"
"Yes," Jax answered, then turned to Ruan.
"Why don't you take a seat? I'll help Cal with the luggage."
Ruan eyed him but said nothing. Even here, Jax wasn't treating him like a normal person—but like a fragile celebrity who needed to be coddled.
What happened to having fun and forgetting who they were?
He sighed inwardly and took a seat in the buggy, trying to shake the feeling off.
Once they were all settled in, Cal started the ride, expertly navigating the winding paths of the island. As they glided along, he pointed out various landmarks and attractions.
To their left, Ruan saw a stunning complex of sleek modern villas, each one designed to blend seamlessly into the island's natural landscape. The buildings were crafted from a combination of glass, steel, and polished wood, giving them a sophisticated, high-end look.
"That's the Azure Oasis," Cal explained. "Our luxury villa complex. Each villa is designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation, with private pools, outdoor kitchens, and breathtaking ocean views. Your villa is right up there—but first, we need to check in at the lobby."
Nobody spoke as they admired the villas.
"Azure Island," Cal continued, "has a rich history. For decades, it's been a calm and peaceful haven for celebrities and public figures who want to escape the spotlight and start anew. We've hosted countless stars—from Hollywood actors to renowned musicians like yourself. They all come here seeking peace."
Ruan chuckled. "Let's be real, Cal. This island is more like a rehab haven for problematic celebrities who want to keep their messes under wraps."
Cal responded with a light laugh. "You're not wrong, Ruan. We do have some of the best therapists in the business, and discretion is our top priority. But it's not all about therapy. This island changes people."
He smiled warmly. "Many celebrities have found themselves here—some even fell in love. And everyone, without exception, leaves a happier, healthier, and better version of themselves." He paused and pointed left. "We even have the Cave of Love, where couples can rekindle their romance."