BAILE (Where We Come Home)

Chapter 14 Buff is an Understatement

I was surprised when I awoke at my usual waking time of five thirty. Maybe my body really was feeling better after returning home. I got changed into my active wear, pausing on my way out at remembering my father's words about water. I slipped on my one piece underneath my clothes before heading outside. I tuned out to Lana Del Ray as I trekked my way through the woods. I slowed my pace as I came across a small lake bordered by thick trees. I took out my earphones as I neared the water. I knew the waters around here were safe but I was still apprehensive as I peeled off my top and skins.

I gritted my teeth as I waded into the icy water, praying I didn't get hyperthermia. By the time I was standing far from the bank I had gotten accustomed to the water temperature. I closed my eyes, letting my troubles flee my mind and knowing that the water was good. I didn't even take a breath as I slowly sunk beneath the surface. I felt so at peace in the water, like I had stepped into another realm where everything was perfect.

I ran out of air, resurfacing. I smoothed back my hair while opening my eyes. I could hear wings flapping in the distance, the water trickling down my body, I could smell the moss clinging to the rocks, taste the raw flavour of the water and see far into the distance. My senses were heightened as I spun in a slow circle. I sensed movement in the air above my head and I looked up as a black and grey moth flew towards me, landing on my forehead. I moved the moth onto my finger, smiling in awe at the beautiful patterns across its wings.

It sat there for a while before flying away.

Not wanting to spend too long in the water I waded out. I was just about to grab my top when I heard loud breathing and fast, light footsteps. Someone was running. Curiosity led me through the bordering tree line, following the sound of the creature that was running. I stepped around a huge tree trunk and stopped. There, slowing to a jog in front of me was a man, a very naked man by the name of Mr. O'Sullivan. My eyes wandered and I think my brain exploded.

He went to turn around and I whipped back around the huge tree trunk, my eyes wide and possibly never able to blink again.

"How was home?" He asked rather casually.

"Fine." I squeaked.

"Are you feeling better?" His voice was closer and I lost the ability to speak.

"Mhm." I mumbled.

He was silent for a while.

"You can come out now I've got pants on." I could hear the smile in his voice.

I waited a beat before stepping out from behind the tree, my hands crossed over my chest. "Why were you running naked?"

"Why were you swimming?" For a split second I thought his eyes wandered over my body.

I tried to keep my eyes on his. "I asked first."

He smiled an award-winning smile. "I like being close to nature, it's rejuvenating, like swimming in a lake." He gestured towards me.

How did he know I was in a lake? I asked myself.

"It's weird." I remarked.

He laughed. "What's normal?" Now I was sure he was openly checking me out. As if sensing I knew this, his eyes slowly returned back to mine after gazing at my body. "I'm glad you're seeing Anna today and Eliza too." He changed the subject.

"So am I, I have a few things on my mind."

"Have you had anymore nightmares?" His tone changed.

"One. During the day."

He stepped forward. "During the day?"

I nodded. "Eliza and I both did."