Oliver points out, “Random may have already swum in the pool we’re now getting in.”
“Don’t ruin it,” Grey retorts, and I shake my head at their antics.
We kick off our shoes, and Misha hollers as he cannonballs into the pool, sending a wave of water splashing over us. I can’t help but let out a loud squeal of surprise, shaking the droplets from my skin while a wide grin spreads across my face.
Oliver, looking endearingly out of place, lowers himself into the water with a slight shiver, attempting to adjust his glasses even though they’re not on his face. He catches my gaze, squinting, and I don’t know if it’s because he can’t see well or if it’s because I caught him and he’s daring me to say something. I only giggle to myself, shaking my head.
Grey, who’s been watching the whole scene with an amused smirk, finally sets his laptop aside and dives in with surprising grace. The splash that follows sends more water cascading over the edge.
I shriek again, this time more from laughter than surprise, as he surfaces with a triumphant splash. “Show-off!”
I shed my T-shirt and shorts, feeling a wave of vulnerability wash over me as I stand there in just my white bikini. My glasses come off next, and I carefully set them on my folded clothes. The guys’ appreciative gazes make my cheeks flush crimson, and I instinctively cover my belly with my hands.
This is the first time they see that much of me when my mind has not been in a foggy haze of lust, and my already lacking confidence is gone.
Grey’s voice cuts through my nervous thoughts, a low, teasing chide. “Ah-ah, Amelia. Show us that beautiful body. I want to see every freckle on that perfect skin.”
My cheeks burn even hotter, and I can’t help but fidget, my hands trembling slightly as I lower them. Each step toward the ladder feels like an eternity, and the sound of splashing and laughter from the guys amplifies my nerves.
Oliver, noticing my hesitation, meets me at the ladder with a reassuring smile. His hands are gentle as he helps me into the water, his touch steady and comforting under my arms. I glance around at the guys, trying to gauge their reactions and keep my nerves in check, but their warm smiles and relaxed demeanor slowly ease my anxiety.
“Put your legs around my waist,” Oliver instructs softly.
I could probably stand, but I comply willingly, wrapping my legs around him and clinging to his shoulders. The water laps at my skin, cool and inviting, and I feel surprisingly secure in his arms.
He won’t let me drown.
In the shallow water.
Grey comes to stand beside us and begins explaining swimming techniques, demonstrating strokes and breathing. I listen intently, watching his muscular form glide through the water with ease. When he finishes, he turns to me with a grin. “Your turn, Princess.”
I pout, tightening my grip on Oliver. “Can’t I just stay here?”
Oliver chuckles, the vibration rumbling through his chest. “As much as I’d love that, you should give it a try.”
“Fine.”
Grey swims over, his hands replacing Oliver’s as he supports me on my belly. “Come on, show us what you’ve learned.”
Misha pipes up from the side of the pool, “Yeah, show us your best impression of a drowning Bug!”
I splash water in his direction, laughing despite myself. “You tit!”
As I attempt to mimic Grey’s movements, Misha continues his commentary. “Surely, it helps having the longest legs, even if you don’t know how to use them.”
I giggle and shoot a mock glare his way as I kick a bit too enthusiastically. “Keep it up, and I’m nominating you as the next pool float,” I retort, causing Grey to chuckle softly while adjusting my arms. “Focus on your form, not him.”
I take a deep breath, my body relaxing in Grey’s strong hands. Starting to get the hang of it, I feel a sense of accomplishment, and when Grey takes his hands off me, and I swim over to Oliver without looking like the aforementioned drowning bug, I’m so fucking happy.
Standing a bit wobbly next to Oliver, I catch my breath and try to control the triumphant smile threatening to split my face.
Grey swims over, his grin broad and encouraging. “You did really good,” he praises. “A few more times, and you’ll be able to survive the ferry accident.”
“Thank you for showing me.” I can’t resist the wave of exhaustion mixed with relief as I step forward to hug him. My arms wrap around his neck, and I let my chin rest on his shoulder. “God, I’m tired,” I admit, my words muffled against his skin. “I think I’ll just sit on the pool edge and watch you guys. You can loosen up your muscles without me,” I say, trying to pull away, but Grey’s arms tighten around me, keeping me close.
“No, I need you right here,” he insists softly, his hands moving to my thighs, anchoring me against him.
I link my legs around his waist and let myself melt a little more against his shoulder, watching the water ripple quietly around us. Grey’s fingers begin a gentle exploration, tracing soothing lines over my skin underwater.
