A Second Chance At Life

Premature Heart Attack

"I actually can't swim very well," I admitted, toes tapping the bottom of the lake. The mud below my feet took a sharp dip, and I scrambled to regain my footing.

"Well there's always time to learn," Ella said, poking my chest towards the shallows.

"I once took a swim class with my brother but my instructor was hot so I pretended I couldn't swim so I could stay in his group," I admitted, blushing.

She laughed. "And you've never thought about taking another? Or having someone teach you?"

I shook my head. "I have a real fear of making myself look stupid."

"Well that's going to happen anyways," she teased. "Why let fear dictate what you do? I think you're pretty awesome when you're not trying so hard."

I scoffed. "When do I try? I didn't even do my makeup this morning!"

"But you still look great so it doesn't matter," she said, splashing me in the face. "I don't wear makeup but you don't see me whining about what people say."

It was true she didn't wear makeup, but still she was beautiful - unfairly so. The sun made her wet skin glisten and her smile gave me chills. I became suddenly too aware of the fact we were alone.

I tiptoed a few feet farther from Ella.

She turned to me, as if suddenly remembering I was with her. "Your face is turning pink. Maybe you've gotten enough sun for today, Ghostie" she added, taking back the space I'd made between us. She ran a hand over my cheek. "You're definitely a little hot."