While on the Beach with My Husband, a Woman Ran Up, Knelt, and Said His Name

I jolted awake, heart racing from a nightmare where John, my husband, abandoned me in a tropical paradise. I was Rosa, and the dream had been so vivid—John leaving me alone amidst turquoise waters and swaying palm trees. As the morning sun peeked through the curtains, I tried to shake off the unease.

“Rosa? You okay?” John’s voice called from the hallway. He appeared at the door, concern etched on his face.

I sighed with relief. “Yeah, just a bad dream. What time is it?”

“It’s almost 9. I made coffee,” he said with a smile. “Oh, and happy anniversary, sweetheart.”

My eyes widened. I had completely forgotten—it was our 10th wedding anniversary! I jumped out of bed and threw my arms around him. “Happy anniversary, John! I can’t believe it’s been ten years already.”

John’s eyes twinkled with excitement. “I’ve got a surprise for you. Close your eyes and hold out your hands.”

I complied, feeling something light placed in my palms. When I opened my eyes, I saw two plane tickets.

“No way,” I gasped, reading the destination. “The Dominican Republic? Are you serious?”

John grinned. “Pack your bags, babe. We leave in three hours.”

I squealed with delight, showering him with kisses. “John, this is amazing! I can’t believe you did this!”

“Better hurry,” he laughed. “You’ve got 20 minutes to pack before we need to hit the road.”

As I packed, I felt a pang of guilt. John had been so busy with work lately, and we hadn’t spent much quality time together. This trip was just what we needed to reconnect.

The flight to the Dominican Republic was a blur of excitement. Stepping off the plane, the warm tropical air was a welcoming embrace.

“Oh my God, John, it’s beautiful!” I exclaimed.

John squeezed my hand. “Just wait until you see where we’re staying.”

A sleek black car whisked us to our resort. The scenery was mesmerizing.

“I can’t believe you kept this a secret,” I said.

John smiled. “It wasn’t easy with all those late nights at the office.”

A pang of guilt hit me. “I’m sorry I’ve been so wrapped up in my own stuff.”

“That’s why we’re here,” John said. “No work, no distractions. Just us.”