love is in the water

24

As Lena stirred, the warmth of the morning sun spilled through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. Rob's gentle kisses on her cheeks pulled her from her dreams, and she blinked up at him, her heart racing.

"Rob?" she murmured, still half-asleep.

"Sorry for my actions at Casa," he repeated, his voice laced with sincerity. "I was a fool. But I need you to know... I really do love you. I'm in love with you."

Lena's heart fluttered. She sat up, wrapping the blanket around her. "You mean that?"

"More than anything," he said, his gaze steady and earnest. "I messed up, but I want to make things right. You mean the world to me."

She felt a mix of emotions—relief, hope, and a hint of fear. "It's not easy to forget what happened, Rob. But..."

"But?" he pressed, leaning closer, his eyes searching hers.

"But I want to believe you," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath.

He reached for her hand, intertwining their fingers. "Then let's take it one day at a time. I'll prove it to you."

Lena swung her legs over the side of the bed, but before she could fully stand, Rob wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her back against him.

"Where do you think you're going?" he teased, his breath warm against her neck.

With a playful grin, he effortlessly lifted her off the ground, cradling her in his arms. "Rob!" she laughed, half surprised, half thrilled.

"Just a little surprise," he said, a glint of mischief in his eyes as he carried her toward the kitchen. "We need to start the day right."

"Okay, okay! But I can walk!" she protested, giggling.

He set her down gently in the middle of the kitchen, his expression softening. "I just wanted to make you smile. Can you forgive me enough to let me cook you breakfast?"

Lena's heart swelled at his effort. "If you promise not to burn the toast, I think I can manage that."

Rob laughed, and the tension between them began to melt away. "Deal! But I might need some help."

She stepped closer, excitement bubbling in her chest. "Alright, Chef Rob. What's on the menu?"

After a delicious breakfast filled with laughter and lighthearted teasing, Rob took Lena's hand and led her back to the living room. "Ready?" he asked, a hint of anticipation in his voice.

Lena raised an eyebrow, curiosity piquing. "Ready for what?"

Without answering, Rob scooped her up again, making her squeal with surprise. "Rob!" she laughed, wrapping her arms around his neck.

He carried her to the couch, gently setting her down. "I thought we could have a little fun before everyone else wakes up," he said, a playful glint in his eyes.

"Fun how?" she asked, grinning.

s they sat on the couch, Lena picked up the cards, but before she could deal, Rob suddenly lunged at her, fingers wiggling.

"Tickle attack!" he shouted, his hands finding her sides.

Lena erupted into laughter, squirming away from him. "Rob, no! Stop it!" she gasped, trying to catch her breath between giggles.

He continued his playful assault, his laughter mixing with hers. "I can't help it! You're too cute when you're trying to escape!"

Finally, she managed to twist away, falling back against the cushions. "Okay, okay! You win!" she laughed, raising her hands in surrender.