“I felt like a disaster,” I confessed with a small laugh. “Flailing and messy.”
He looked concerned. “We’ll work on your form, I swear. I’ll have you comfortable and confident next summer.”
I shook my head. “No, Leo, it wasn’t bad. I kind of liked it. I was a disaster, but I managed, until I got across.”
Leo laughed and tugged me closer. I suppose he couldn’t wait until I was dry. He held me tightly against him as he kissed me. At first, I was hesitant to place my palms on his shirt. But his clothes were already ruined from my soaked swimsuit. So, I wrapped my arms around his neck, returning the kiss.
“I don’t think you know how much you mean to me,” he whispered when we pulled away. “I wish… I don’t know. We could have gotten through the bullshit sooner. Had more time together.”
I nodded. “I know, but we’re here now. We’ll make up for lost time.”
He let out a breath. “So, you’re into the long-distance thing?”
“Of course.” My grip on him slackened a little. “Aren’t you?”
Leo was my one. It felt corny to believe that sentiment with such certainty. Still, some part of me always knew we were good for each other.
The distance between us never mattered because even after years, we’d found each other. Despite the fear and perfection, we saw each other in ways no one could.
“Kira, I’m not letting you go again,” Leo assured, cupping my cheek. He tilted my head up, so I looked into his eyes. “As long as you feel the same, I’m staying right here, right next to you, because nothing’s made me feel this alive. This perfect.”
I sighed, relieved to know we agreed. There’d be no more looking across the room and guessing what was on his mind. Hoping that he’d speak up when we were alone. Wondering if he even knew I wanted him.
The sun fully moved up over the horizon. Light washed over us as I leaned in to kiss Leo again.
Like so many summers ago, in the middle of the closed community pool, Leo and I made a deal.
This time, we sealed our promise by kissing lips instead of thumbs. This time my hope felt firmly planted in reality, and Leo’s words were nothing but the truth.
This time, our promise lasted forever.
THE END
