The luxurious private resort Thomas had arranged for Kate was nothing short of paradise.

Nestled along the pristine coastline, the secluded five-star retreat boasted sprawling white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive villas designed for the elite.

Kate had woken up that morning to the soft sound of waves crashing against the shore, the golden rays of the sun filtering through the floor-to-ceiling windows of her lavish beachfront suite.

She stretched lazily in the massive ...