THE PERFECT DECEPTION

Chapter 21

Anupama

The breeze swept through the dress, causing it to billow as the ocean sent another wave crashing at my feet. His hands gently pulled at mine as the wind carried the symphony of the waves that crashed in mighty swells. The water sprayed droplets across his muscular frame, conjuring images of a model in a bikini advertisement as the ideal woman runs towards him to collapse gently into his embrace.

Jonathan's gaze locked with mine, filled with the same intensity from three months prior. Since then, I've been enveloped in his wondrous embrace, warmed in his bed, and we've shared moments of pure passion and bliss in each other's apartments. We share a profound connection, delighting in introducing him to old Bollywood films that baffled him until the hero exacted revenge. The joy of clasping his hand in a restaurant befitting royalty. The pleasure of smiling freely, asking nothing in return for his contentment.

All I need is to be by his side for him to draw breath. Nicolas, Devika, and Levi lounge on the rooftop awaiting his return from work. Typically, one can spot his car and his stoic demeanor as he enters the building, chilling onlookers. Yet, the instant our eyes meet, he softens and welcomes the modest affection I offer. I give more than my heart can hold. Does he realize how soundly I sleep against his chest compared to my pillow of sorrow? Is he aware of how much I value his company? Does he understand how tightly I cling to his bear hugs as the aroma of spices fills the kitchen? Does he know the joy I feel when his cologne permeates the room, reminiscent of the time the app was fraught with bugs before its release a month ago?

Adrian has been on my case ever since the surge in website traffic and the high demand for orders pinned me to the wall. At night, Jonathan would tenderly hold me in his lap as we pondered the future of the East meets West expansion. The parties, the various networks of food apps, and stores have become my routine. But not today. Today, my mind simply gazed into the sunset while Jonathan tenderly stroked my hair with his cheek. I yearned for the water to touch my skin, for peace, and what better way to find it than with the man whose heart was slowly entwining with mine?

His hand clasped mine tightly, ensuring I felt a gentle pull as he waded into the water up to his thighs. Jonathan's radiant smile mirrored mine as his eyes shifted to lighter shades of blue, echoing the Pacific's sea of wonders and perilous creatures. "Jonathan, I can't swim," I murmured softly, my lips forming a slight pout. His teeth flashed briefly as he chuckled, then shot me a mischievous glance. "Jonathan," I sighed, my eyes narrowing in feigned irritation.

"Are you frightened?" he teased gently, his eyes gleaming with challenge, while mine displayed growing annoyance at his teasing. "Frightened? Never," I declared, tilting my chin up as his laughter resonated with my soul, yearning to confess, 'My feelings are as tangible as your breath beside me.' Silence fell as the sand sifted through my toes, drawing me closer to the abyss. Suddenly, he pulled me into his embrace as the water sent chills of goosebumps from my legs to my arms. I inhaled sharply as a wave crashed against Jonathan's sturdy, oak-like back. My eyes widened as he drew me close to his chest.

"You idiot!" I exclaim, attempting to press my fist against his chest, but his devilish smile only widens. "Since when does water scare you?" His eyes twinkle with mischievous humor as he effortlessly floats backward. Numbness overtakes my feet at the realization they're no longer touching the ocean floor, while his strength pulls me tightly against his abdomen as his hardness pressed against me. I let out a loud scream as he hovers in the chest-deep water. My eyes are wide, my breathing erratic, and my arms wrap tightly around his neck, using him as a makeshift flotation device, or perhaps to leave him for any lurking sharks.