“How about crocodiles?”
Chuckling, he returned his stare. “No, they won’t be here, either. They like calmer waters.”
“Oh, good.” She sighed heavily. “So, do you think I can remove my boots and stockings?”
“Yes. That sounds like a splendid idea.”
Giddily, she sank to the ground and yanked off the cumbersome items until she could wiggle her bare toes and feel the air touching them. Beside her, Felix laughed and followed her lead. The sparkle in his eyes let her know he looked forward to feeling the water rush over his feet just as much as she did.
She stood and took careful steps toward the water. Hesitantly, she dipped her toes...then sighed. It was cooler than she expected.
Felix moved beside her and bumped her with his arm. “Is this all you are going to do? Wet your feet?”
“Well, you see—”
“Because,” he interrupted, “this was whatIhad in mind.”
Before she realized what was happening, he lifted her in his arms. In three long strides he splashed into the water. Squealing, she wrapped her arms around his neck and held on tight. The water slowly rose up their legs the deeper into the pond he went. Soon it splashed against her bottom.
Playfully, he bent and dipped her toward the water, but he didn’t release her. Of course, even if he did, she would still have her arms around his neck. This was just too much fun to let go of him.
At first it struck her odd that he would be holding her so personally when it was his rule that she couldn’t touch him. But for some reason, that rule seemed to have disappeared, and her heart sang with happiness.
She reached one hand down and splashed water into his face. Laughing, he shook his head and sent the drops flying.
“Tell me, my dear Katrina... can you swim?”
She arched an eyebrow. “I’ll have you know I was the best swimmer in the little village where I grew up. I was even better than some adults.”
His gaze narrowed. “You don’t say.”
Without warning, he tightened his arms around her waist and sank them both under the water. Although she wasn’t entirely prepared, she was able to hold her breath. She should have released her hold from his neck, but being this close to him was just too nice... and comfortable. And yes, very intimate.
Within seconds, he brought them both rocketing up from the surface. She laughed and wiped her eyes, and he wiped his using only one hand since the other was still wrapped around her waist. His smile widened, and his eyes gleamed with humor.
They continued to stare at each other for the longest time. Soon, their laughing subsided. Katrina’s breathing quickened, and she realized his breath was also speeding up. His gaze dropped to her lips. Butterflies danced in her tummy.
Kiss me, please... She held her breath, hoping her silent plea would become a reality.
