My Last And My Only

Chapter 140: Beneath Gentle Giants

The laughter from the beach slowly gave way to something calmer.

After almost an hour of running through the waves, taking pictures, and teasing one another, the group finally gathered beneath a shaded waiting area near the docking point.

Christine accepted the towel Gwen handed her with a dramatic sigh.

"I've decided."

Yves looked at her.

"What now?"

"If I have to wake up before sunrise again..."

She wrung water from her hair.

"...there better be another whale shark waiting for me."

Chico laughed.

"I told you it would be worth it."

"I never said you were wrong."

Christine looked toward the sea, where several small boats gently rocked against the clear blue water.

"I just think the whale sharks should've adjusted to my sleeping schedule."

"They've been here a lot longer than you," Gwen replied.

"Can't argue with that."

Nearby, one of the guides called for the next group.

"Whale shark briefing, everyone."

Almost instantly, the girls gathered around.

The guide smiled warmly.

"Before we head out, we'd like to remind everyone of a few important rules..."

Aiah listened carefully while fastening the straps of her life vest.

She frowned.

"Why won't this stay straight?"

Without saying anything, Khae stepped closer.

"Here."

Her fingers worked patiently on the tangled straps.

"You twisted it."

"I did?"

"You were talking while putting it on."

"I was distracted."

Khae smiled without looking up.

"I noticed."

Aiah watched her for a moment.

"So..."

"So?"

"You've become very good at fixing my problems."

Khae chuckled.

"They're usually small problems."

"They still count."

"There."

Khae gently tugged the strap one last time.

"Now you're ready."

Aiah looked down.

Then back at Khae.

"...Thank you."

Khae shrugged.

"You'd do the same for me."

"I would."

"I know."

Aiah laughed.

"You almost said it."