30- feelings reciprocated

16 4 6
                                    

^^ crush by David Archuleta ^^ (You can listen to it while you read this chapter)

Soraya's POV

As I step out of the Uber, my heart is pounding so hard I can almost hear it in my ears. Each step toward the rooftop feels heavier than the last. Part of me wishes the elevator would break down, trapping me inside forever, but that wish is cut short as the doors beep and slide open.

The rooftop is just as empty as it was the last time. It's around 4 p.m., and the sky is still bright. I spot Nathan sitting at the edge of the pool, his legs dangling in the water while he scrolls through his phone. I walk over and tap him on the shoulder.

He turns quickly and stands up. "Oh hey. You're here already. That was fast."

This is the first time I've seen Nathan shirtless, and suddenly, I don't know how to act. My brain short-circuits.

"Yeah, uh, the traffic was... horrible." I fumble. "I mean, it wasn't that bad. Actually, no, there wasn't any traffic at all."

I want to disappear. What am I even saying?

Nathan chuckles softly. "You want a drink?" he offers, clearly amused by my flustered state.

I shake my head quickly. "Maybe after the lesson," I manage to say.

"Alright," he nods. "You can change over there." He points to a small, cute stall behind us.

"Thanks," I mutter, scurrying off toward the stall.

Inside, I lean against the mirror, trying to catch my breath. My face is flushed, and my heart's still racing. I glance at my reflection, my mind replaying the moment I saw Nathan standing there—his abs perfectly defined, his arms toned, not too bulky but just right. How did I never notice this before? Clothes really don't do that body any justice.

I shake my head, trying to focus. This is supposed to be a swimming lesson, not a distraction. I quickly change into my swimsuit, mentally preparing myself for the awkwardness that's sure to follow.

I walk back to where Nathan is, and as soon as he notices me, he stops scrolling on his phone, his gaze flickering from my head to my toes.

"Uh, nice swimsuit," he says, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "So, um... are you scared of water?"

"Not at all," I say quickly. "I've just never had anyone teach me how to swim, that's all."

"Ah, okay. That's perfect," he says, sounding a bit relieved.

He steps into the pool first, guiding me in. The water is cold, sending a shiver through me as I take a step in. Nathan's hands gently hold my arms, steadying me as I get used to the feel of the water.

"There you go," he says softly, his touch firm yet gentle. "You're doing great."

I try to focus on his words, but my heart is racing, not just from the cold water but from the closeness. The whole scene feels surreal—Nathan, holding me in the pool, his bare skin brushing against mine as he helps me float. It's all so new, and I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves swirling inside me.

"Okay, let's start with the basics," he says, his voice calm and reassuring. "Just relax, and let yourself float. I've got you."

Nathan's hands rest lightly on my waist as I try to steady myself. The cold water feels a little less intimidating now, though my heart is still racing, partly from his touch and partly from the nerves.

"Okay," Nathan says softly, his voice smooth and steady. "Just take a deep breath and lean back. The water will hold you, but I'll be here to make sure you don't sink."

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