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I didn’t get that with my parents.
She nods. “Doesn’t make it any easier though.”
“No, I suppose it doesn’t.”
I want to say more. Tell her I understand how she feels. Talk about my parents. But my mouth won’t open to let the words out, and the opportunity passes me by.
“Mom wanted me to go on an adventure.” She pats Peter Pan next to her on the cushion. “I guess I’m trying to get some inspiration.”
I lower myself onto the top step. “What kinds of things are on your list?”
“Camping, jet skiing, salsa lessons.” Her eyes light up. “Hey, you know this area. Are there places around here where I can do any of those things?”
I nod. “You can do anything outdoorsy here. Not sure about the dance lessons.”
“You wear tights, but you don’t dance?”
“I wore tights. Once. Past tense.” I smirk. “I know of a kayak and canoe rental place in town. I can give you the information.”
“Have you ever gone canoeing?”
“When I was a kid. I used to spend my summers here with my parents.”
“Shouldn’t be difficult to learn how to steer.” She shrugs. “Just paddle, right?”
The thought of Charly getting stranded, alone, in the middle of the water sours my stomach, and the words fly from my mouth before I can stop them. “I’m heading into town tomorrow to pick up a shipment from the docks. I can take you with me, and show you where they offer lessons for first-timers.”
She gasps. “You will?”
I will? “Sure. I can show you around while we’re there.” Seriously? Why can’t I stop talking?
“I didn’t want to ask, and make you feel like you had to help me. But if you really don’t mind,” she beams at me, “I’d love your help.”
Warmth spreads from my stomach to my chest, and I know right here and now, I’ll do just about anything to keep her smile directed at me.
And that’s not good.
I push off the porch to stand. “Well, I’ll leave you to your list.”
“Are you swimming tonight?”
“Yes.”
“Would you mind if I joined you?”
My eyebrows lift. “You want to swim with me?”
“If you don’t mind.”
“I don’t.”
She dips her head, keeping her eyes on mine. “You can tell me the truth if you’d rather the alone time.”
My heart hammers in my chest, and the next words come out strangled because I can’t believe I’m saying them. “I don’t mind your company.”
Her mouth breaks into another beautiful smile, and I smile too, because I put it there.
I change into my black trunks, and head out to the pool with our towels. I warm up my muscles by doing some stretches, carefully bending at the waist, and letting my arms hang down by my ankles.
