She pushed off the car and took a few tentative steps toward me. Once she was within arm’s reach, I pulled her closer.
“Can I kiss you, please?”
“Yes, Reaper, you may. However, you’re here by on probation. Hurt me again, and I’ll break my promise to you and gut you like a fish.”
“Do you know how to gut a fish?”
“I do. Maybe if you behave yourself, I won’t have to show you, Neanderthal.”
“A Neanderthal who made you squirt.”
“Alek,” she exclaimed, blushing deeply.
“It was fucking beautiful. Although, now thinking back, I would have preferred if we were alone.”
“You’re so bad. What am I going to do with you?”
“Let me do it again,” I said, leaning in and kissing her deeply.
“I’m pretty sure you promised me a hike and hot springs.”
“I did, didn’t I?”
She placed her tiny hand in mine, and we trekked up the mountain. My heart soared in ways I never imagined possible. We found a secluded spot near the springs, and steam billowed gently from the surface of the water, mingling with the cool air. The sight was every bit as breathtaking as the pictures. The pools were surrounded by large rocks and moss-covered trees. It was perfect.
Kinsley’s eyes widened with excitement. “This is amazing. I’ve heard of this place but never thought I’d actually visit it.”
“Well, you seem to be in need of a hiking buddy, and I’d like to officially apply for the position. This is a fantastic place to unwind. They say there are healing powers in the water. I think it’s only right we test that theory.”
“I didn’t bring a swimsuit.”
“Me either, but see that sign over there?” I pointed to the one that listed the rules, and the most prominent one stated Clothing Optional. She shook her head and crossed her arms over her chest.
“What if some man comes along and wants to join us, and he sees me naked?”
“One look from me and he’d think twice. I wouldn’t let any man see you naked.”
“Nik does all the time,” she teased.
“That’s different,” I countered.
“How so?”
“I love my brother, and I know he’s capable of looking without taking or touching.”
“I like his touch.”
“Are you trying to make me jealous, woman?”
“Maybe a little. It seems only fair. After all, you did dine with the enemy last night.”
I threw my head back and laughed. “The enemy?”
“Yes, the enemy and the cock-craving whore.”
“Will it make you feel better if I tell you that ‘the enemy’ doesn’t remotely turn me on? She does nothing for me, unlike you.”
“And the other?”
