Page 84 of Sand in My Boots

In the primary bedroom, I undress and take a quick rinse in the shower. Memories of the last time I was in a comparable shower batter my brain, bringing nerves, butterflies, and all kinds of emotions of being back here.

Of seeing Cameron.

Of kissing him.

Of knowing what’s coming next. As soon as we get back to my room tonight.

After we talk, of course. Because he’s right. We need to talk. We need to discuss what this is, how we’re defining this relationship between us, perhaps set some ground rules this time.

As miserable as I’ve been the last two weeks, it was cathartic in a way. I don’t know what the future holds, whether Cameron and I have a real shot at making something tangible come out of our connection. But if we don’t try, I’m going to regret it for the rest of my life. The question of “what could have been” will haunt me throughout any relationship I embark on.

If we can’t make it work, at least we won’t wonder. I won’t wonder. Maybe Cameron feels differently. If the two kisses we’ve shared today are any indication, he’s on the same page as me. He wants more.

“Everything. It changes everything.”

His words from earlier ping-pong around my brain, excitement warming me more than the heat of the water.

I towel off, debating what to wear. Elisa gave me no real hints of what to pack. “Summer casual, maybe a dress or two.” At the last minute, I threw in two sundresses. I’m bummed I don’t have any cute lingerie. Not that Cameron will care, but could she have at least given me a heads up not to toss in any old undies and bras? She’s going to get a piece of me when I text her later with an update.

A loud knock sounds on the door. Tightening the towel’s knot around my chest, I scurry to the front door. On tiptoes, I peek through the peephole, an excited gasp rushing out at my visitor.

“This is not The Drift.”

“I couldn’t wait. Are you going to let me in?” Cameron’s muddled voice filters through the door.

“No, I’m not dressed.”

“And?”

“And what?”

“Are you shy? Like I haven’t seen it all before.”

Before registering what I’m doing, the door opens. Still running on autopilot, without hesitation, I fist his T-shirt and yank him inside. “Don’t say shit like that in public,” I hiss, letting the door slam.

“There wasn’t anyone around.” His eyes rake down my body, lingering a little long at my chest area and the apex of my thighs hidden under the towel. The left side of his lips picks up in a sly smile as his eyes meet mine. Damn, I missed those eyes. “You could have waited for me. I would have made time to join you in the shower.”

“We have plenty of time for that.”

He raises his eyebrows. “Do we?”

Ignoring his question, I inquire, “How did you know which room was mine?”

“Tapped into Reservations. Duh.”

Right. The man has connections here.

“I’m thrilled to see you, Juliana.”

“You have no idea how happy I am to see you.” My teeth gently gnaw the inside of my inner cheek.

“So happy, you dressed for the occasion.”

With a flick of his wrist, the knot comes undone. I don’t bother endeavoring to catch the towel before it falls to the floor. Standing naked in front of him has the butterflies returning. Not so much because of nerves, but more from excitement.

The possibilities of what this man will do with my naked body are endless.

I can’t wait to give myself over to him.