Out From the Shadows

Chapter 10

The water is so clear that I could probably drink it. A sunset of pinks and purples explode above the small trees around us. It is more beautiful here than on the Honolulu Islands. But Almarie is more beautiful than both places.

I examine the vista intensely, wanting to remember it if I decide to ever come back. I am barely aware of Almarie calling my name and snapping in my face. I refocus on her face just like I did with the scenery. I never noticed the freckles that dot the bridge of her nose and her cheeks until now. A tiny scar cuts into her right eyebrow where a few hairs are missing. Her face is sleek and the green of her eyes maker her black hair look even darker.

When I have memorized every curve and detail of her face do I snap out of my daze. I look briefly around and clothes lay gently on a bush. My eyes flask to the water and Almarie's figure standing in the middle of it. She's in her under wear and bra. It's the most I have seen of a woman, swimsuits at least covering the midsection. It is quite a sight, seeing the most beautiful girl in her under clothing. I blush and push all dirty thoughts from my mind. I chuckle instead and cover my mouth with my palm to stifle it.

She spins around and looks shocked. My laughing halts immediately and I just stare at her. The contours of her body are outlined by the water, making every curve emphasized and more pronounced. Her under clothing is a deep maroon color, my second favorite color. A sudden sense of guilt makes me shrink back. I am disgusted with myself for admiring her half naked form. I think she feels the same when she bows her head and starts to walk towards me.

Is she ashamed? I couldn't imagine a time that Almarie would be ashamed, and I still can't. I let a smile loose and she looks up. Her body seems to relax and gains a positive posture instead of a slouch. My back becomes perfectly straight and I clear my throat, prepared to apologize. She beats me to the chase.

"The water's warm. Won't you join me?"

My snap decision is yes, but my deep consciousness says no. Absolutely, positively, no. Someone could meander by and see us. We could take things too far. I love Almarie, but would never dare take advantage of her. Even if she agreed, I still wouldn't. I've been taught to be a gentlemen and I will stick by my lessons.

That doesn't mean I can't have a little bit of fun.

"Just for a swim?"

"What else?" Her head tips to the side, innocently. I can not believe she didn't attract all the young men in her district, or any other district. Just her smile could persuade a man to jump from a cliff.

I take off my clothes, not bothering to hide behind anything. I don't remember if Almarie did, but I don't want her to feel weak or bashful if she did so. I leave my briefs on obviously and am thankful they aren't white. I trek into the water and flinch when the freezing water laps at my ankles. What a liar! The water is as cold as ice and I would much rather staying in the cozy tropical air. But I am already undressed and she's watching me, analyzing my every move.

I make it to her, shivering as little as I can. I don't dare get too close and personal. I have no idea how she would react and I don't want to get too ahead of ourselves. She doesn't have the same thoughts as I do because she plants a cold hand on my bicep and takes a tentative step towards me.

"Almarie..."

"It's fine. I'm just cold. We can get out since your cold too, your shivering"

"Only if you want to get out." I give her a cocky smile.

"Lets swim for a bit then we can head back home. Wouldn't want you to freeze to death. Your father wouldn't appreciate that very much, will he?"

I give a shake of my head.