The soft sound of waves kissed the edges of the overwater villa as Kingsley and Katherine returned, their bodies still tingling from the warmth of firelight and dancing flames. But it was the scent that hit them first—a slow, seductive veil of vanilla, orchids, and warm jasmine—drawing them deeper into the villa like a magnetic pull.

The lights had been dimmed to a golden glow. Lanterns flickered across the floor, casting gentle shadows over the polished wood, and a quiet symphony of ...