Chapter 23: Hawaii
Maui, Hawaii, was a breathtaking island destination. Its stunning landscapes and captivating beauty attracted visitors from all over the world. The island was known for its pristine beaches, lined with golden sands and framed by turquoise waters. Palm trees swayed gently in the ocean breeze, providing shade and adding to the tropical ambience.
Mount Haleakala, a dormant volcano, dominated the island's skyline. Its majestic peaks reached towards the heavens, creating a dramatic backdrop for the island's picturesque vistas. Visitors would often wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit, where vibrant hues painted the sky with a mesmerizing display.
Maui was also home to lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. These natural wonders enchanted adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Hiking trails led explorers through dense vegetation, where exotic plants and vibrant flowers bloomed in abundance. The sound of rushing water echoed through the forests as majestic waterfalls plummeted into clear pools below.
The island offered a variety of activities for those seeking adventure. Snorkelling and scuba diving allowed visitors to explore the vibrant underwater world, teeming with colourful coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life. Surfers rode the waves that crashed onto Maui's shores, while windsurfers took advantage of the island's strong winds.
The local culture and history of Maui were also rich and fascinating. Ancient Hawaiian temples, known as heiaus, stood as reminders of the island's spiritual heritage. Traditional hula performances and luaus showcased the vibrant Polynesian culture, where music, dance, and delicious feasts brought people together.
Nestled amidst the lush tropical landscape was a magnificent paradise that exuded opulence and charm. The grand establishment stood tall and regal, commanding breathtaking views of the sparkling blue ocean.
Impeccably designed, the hotel boasted lavish architecture and intricate details that spoke of elegance and sophistication. Its exterior showcased a fusion of traditional Hawaiian motifs and modern aesthetics, adorned with vibrant flowers and swaying palm trees, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests.
Inside, the hotel exuded an air of refined luxury. The opulent lobby featured high ceilings, adorned with intricate chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow. Polished marble floors led the way to plush seating areas, where guests could relax and soak in the tranquillity of their surroundings.
The guest rooms were nothing short of indulgent havens. Each spacious suite was meticulously decorated, with plush furnishings and tasteful decor that blended contemporary comfort with Hawaiian charm. From the private balconies, guests could bask in the breathtaking vistas of the palm-fringed beaches and the majestic mountains that encircled the island.
The hotel's amenities were second to none. A sprawling infinity pool beckoned guests to take a refreshing dip, while attentive staff catered to their every need, offering poolside drinks and delectable treats. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the spa provided a haven of serenity, offering a wide array of indulgent treatments and wellness experiences.
Culinary delights awaited at the hotel's world-class restaurants. The renowned chefs skillfully crafted gourmet dishes using locally sourced ingredients, tantalizing guests' taste buds with the flavours of the island. Whether savouring fresh seafood, traditional Hawaiian delicacies, or international cuisine, guests were treated to an extraordinary culinary journey.
"This is life", Matt muttered, laying down on a sunbed while taking a sip of his drink.
"It is incredibly relaxing", Desiree, who was lying down next to him, agreed, "The kids are having so much fun as well", she said, looking at the pool where she was met with a heartwarming sight. Zephyr, Alex and Bella were playing in the pool, splashing water on each other while laughing. Right next to them, Manny and Luke were having a swimming competition to see who was faster.
"We should do this more often", Matt said, adjusting the sunbed and increasing the decline.
"Mhm", Desire hummed, agreeing with Matt.
[A few feet opposite]
"Haley sweetie, put your phone down and put some sunscreen on", Claire said, handing Haley a bottle of sunscreen, "We have got to stay on these kids otherwise they're going to burn".
"Claire honey, relax", Phil said, trying to calm her down, "The kids are having so much fun. Look at Alex and Luke. Why don't you try chilling out like them?"
"Honey, this isn't like before", Claire interrupted, "We've got kids now. This is more like a business trip than a vacation".
"It's ok. Our kids have grown up", Phil argued, "I'm sure they can handle themselves for a day or more".
"Luke! Pull up your trunks!", Claire shouted, seeing Luke's state, "You were saying Phil?", she replied, raising an eyebrow while looking at Phil.
"That's nothing honey", Phil attempted.
"Phil. I already told you", Claire cut him off, "This isn't a honeymoon. We have to be responsibl- Luke! Come on! Trunks!"
Seeing Claire's current temper, Phil sighed and decided to give up, for now.
As soon as Phil stood up, Claire turned and looked at Haley, tiredly muttering, "Haley. Get off your phone".
Instead, Haley ignored her mom and continued talking on her phone, "No way. Tara got her hair straightened".
Seeing this as a chance to loosen his wife's inhibitions, Phil said, "Claire, consider this as a grand gesture of my love", grabbing Haley's phone and throwing it into the pool.
"Oh My God!", Haley screamed, "What did you just do?!"
Claire gasped seeing his actions, "Phil. That was an expensive phone".
Unaware of the consequences, Phil proudly declared, "It's just the beginning. Buckle your seatbelt lady, you're being wooed".
[Time Skip - the next day]
"What are you doing here?", Zephyr asked, floating on the edge of the pool while looking up at Alex who was currently only dipping her feet in the pool, "And without your parents as well".
"They're pretending this is their honeymoon and left us to spend time alone in an adults-only pool", Alex happily replied while splashing some water with her feet.
"Hey, why don't you join me in the pool?", Zephyr asked.
"The water's a bit cold right now", Alex said, "Let me get used to the temperature first".
"That'll take too long", Zephyr said as he grabbed her hand, "Why don't you just jump in!", he shouted while pulling her into the pool, causing her to scream.
As Alex was being submerged in the pool, a large splash of water was generated, some of it landing on Gloria, who was lying down on a sunbed. "Ayy. I'm all wet now Jay", Gloria complained.
"Hey. No standing around little monkey!", Jay cheerily exclaimed while throwing Manny into the pool. "There you go. Here goes another one", he muttered, throwing Luke into the pool after. "Here comes another one!", Jay shouted while throwing one of the staff members into the pool. Realising his mistake, Jay looked at the guy apologetically, "Sorry. I thought you were one of us".
"Hey, Jay!", Gloria exclaimed, "You're going to hurt someone. Like you".
"That was fun!", Zephyr said when he rose back to the surface with Alex popping up right next to him.
Lightly slapping him on his chest, Alex complained, "You idiot. Don't do that again".
"Awww. Was little Alex scared", Zephyr teased, quickly ducking down as Alex tried to splash some water on him. "Ha. You missed-" he was interrupted by some water smacking his face.
"No I didn't", Alex smugly stated, looking at Zephyr with a look of superiority on her face.
"Oh. It's on now", Zephyr declared while splashing water at Alex, which she quickly dodged, causing the water to splash on Manny, "Oops. Sorry about that Manny".
"Hey!", Manny complained, but a grin appeared on his face soon after, "Take this!", he screamed, trying to splash some water on Zephyr.
Unfortunately, Manny's aim was slightly off and instead of hitting Zephyr, the water hit Luke. "Hey. That's not fair", Luke complained.
"Come on Luke. Let's team up", Zephyr suggested, with Luke nodding in agreement.
"Me and you then Manny", Alex demanded with Manny nodding. Within a few seconds, a water fight began which soon expanded to include almost all people in the swimming pool.
[Time Skip]
"That was soo fun", Alex said as she walked next to Zephyr.
"You're just saying that because you guys won", Zephyr argued.
"And whose fault was that?", Alex said, despite knowing the answer.
"How was I supposed to know that Luke was so easily swayed by food?", Zephyr complained.
"It's Luke", Alex said, "You should've known".
"3 v 1 is so unfair", Zephyr complained, "Still. I think I held on pretty well".
"You didn't last a minute", Alex deadpanned.
"Hey. Some guys might take offence to that", Zephyr teasingly whispered.
Alex's face heated up at his comment, but she hid it well enough, pushing Zephyr with her shoulder, "Shush you".
As they walked into the dining hall, they were met with the sight of Claire, Phil, Luke, Manny, Gloria and Matt talking to each other.
"Well, look at that. The lovebirds finally decided to join us", Matt teased, being swiftly ignored by Alex and Zephyr.
"Where's your sister?", Claire asked.
"She's in our bathroom throwing up", Alex answered.
"What happened?", Claire timidly questioned.
"She's drunk", Zephyr answered, "It looked really bad".
"I knew I never should have let her go!", Claire exclaimed, getting up from the chair and storming away.
"Ooooh. She's in trouble", Zephyr said.
"That's awesome!", Alex exclaimed.
"I guarantee our bedroom's still messier", Manny said, taking a sip of his juice.
"I'm going to go look for Jay", Gloria said, standing up and walking away. As they were walking away, they were met with the sight of Desiree and Bella walking towards them.
"What's wrong?", Desiree asked Matt.
"Some problems came up", Matt answered.
"Aww", Desiree muttered, "I was looking forward to all of us having dinner together".
"I guess we'll have to delay it for some other day", Matt said, trying to cheer up Desiree.
"At least they're having fun", Desiree whispered into Matt's ear, gesturing to Alex and Zephyr who were too lost talking to each other to take note of what was happening.
"That they are", Matt agreed, nodding his head.
"Apparently Phil and Claire are redoing their wedding", Desiree asked with a slight hint of envy.
Unaware of this, Matt nodded his head, "Yep. It's two days from now. Phil invited us to attend".
"That's so romantic", Desiree whispered, looking at Matt with expectation.
Unaware of how to respond, Matt looked away and opted to remain quiet.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone