Salty Kisses

Chapter EIGHT

Chapter EIGHT

"Oh my god, London, look at you." Waist deep in the water, I watch London standing up on the board for the first time. The smile on his face is priceless and so is mine. He's strong and athletic but it took him three times before he was able to do it. "Come on, babe, ride the wave."

Babe? Oh geez, I've just called him babe for the first time and while it surprises me, it feels okay. I like him so I'm cool with it.

My top teeth are biting down on my bottom lips but only because this is so much fun and I'm proud of him.

"Woohoo!" His arms up in the air, he hollers and falls back.

Swimming to meet him. "You did it, I told you it was easy."

"I have to try that again, do you mind?"

No, go. It's thrilling to watch you."

Minutes later, I watch him paddling his way to the next wave. At the perfect time, he hops his feet on the board and stands. He's a fast learner, I'm impressed. This time, he concentrates more and tries to control the board better.

"That's it, you got this."

I watch him staying strong on the board and my heart is doing weird things to me. He's sexy and the perfect reflection of what I've always wanted in a man. Athletic, fun and sexy. He has the last part covered and more.

"Aspen, when are we going to Hawaii or Costa Rica? Surfing is so much fun." London says as he swims back to me. "Come here." He stands with open arms as soon as he reaches me. "Thank you for agreeing to do this with me."

"It's nothing."

"No, it's not nothing." His soft voice says. "I needed it. Focus on something new even if it was just for a short period of time."

"I know you don't like to talk much about your life but it sounds like you have so much weight on your shoulders."

There's something hiding behind his eyes, secrets. "You'll know more about it tomorrow. Now, I want us to enjoy every single minute of our time together."

Pushing up myself until I reach his lips, we kiss again. It's a mix of newfound love and... Salt. I chuckle against his mouth.

"Am I that bad of a kisser?"

"No, but now your lips are salty."

"And proud of it. Did you see me up there hitting the waves like a pro?" His eyebrows frown. "Maybe not a pro but I was freaking good." Seeing London so outspoken is a joy. Surfing can do miracles.

"I've always dreamed of dating a surfer. That way he would understand what the need for surfing is all about."

"Dating? Are we dating Ms. Aspen?"

Huh, crap. Perhaps I should have waited and not skip steps."

"We are, babe, I'm just teasing you." He cups my face with his hand. "I can't keep my hands or lips away from you and that has never happened to me."

Oh, God. Breathe, Aspen.

"I feel the same way." It's true, I do and it's just the beginning.

Seagulls fly around us, distracting both of us.

"Come with me to LA, please."

It scares me but deep down, I know I'll go. Now, it's the time to say yes and hope for the best.

"Okay, yes, I'll go with you." Resting my head on his chest, I wrap my arms around him and hold him tight.

"I knew you would come." He says relieved.