Page 117 of Shameless Expectations

“We should probably head back.”

“Probably. I barely made it up here,” Athena laughed lightly, resting her head on Monti’s shoulder.

“It’s a thirty-minute walk. I think we’ll make it.”

“So you say.” Athena sighed, but she stood up and brushed the dirt off her pants.

Monti packed everything up and then held up Athena’s CamelBak so she could put it on before sliding her arms through her own pack. They walked hand in hand for a bit until the path was too narrow for them to walk side-by-side. As much as nothing felt different, Monti knew it was.

“You know the best lesson I think you ever taught me?” Athena started as she waited for Monti to catch up.

“What’s that?”

“It’s better to live without shame.”

Monti smiled, her cheeks flushing at the thought. “How’s that coming along?”

“It’s easier said than done.” Athena chuckled. “I think you understand that.”

“I do.” Monti snagged Athena’s hand and lifted it to her lips. “But I’m glad you understand that.”

“I didn’t realize how much shame I carried with me.” Athena kissed her cheek. “The world is so different now that I’m aware of it.”

Monti settled into the walk again. They talked amicably until they reached their hotel. Monti set everything down where it belonged. She hadn’t planned anything beyond their day up on the hill, and they had a few more days to explore the city. She had no doubt that Athena had already taken to finding something for them to do.

As much as Monti loved Athena’s love for planning, she also appreciated a simple walk through the city with nothing on their agenda.

“I wish there was a beach nearby,” Athena called from the bathroom.

Monti frowned, not understanding. “Why?” They could have very easily done this anywhere, but Athena had wanted it to happen here. Something about wanting to explore her past again.

“Because I’d love to go skinny dipping with you.” Athena stepped out of the bathroom and leaned against the doorframe. She raised her hand above her arm, naked as the day she was born.

Monti sucked in a sharp breath, her entire body ready to go. Her jaw dropped. This was Athena in all her glory and in all her confidence. The scars that marred her skin were nothing now. Her past only built her up instead of tearing her down. Monti had never seen anything as sexy as this.

“You are amazing,” Monti breathed the words.

“Do you like what you see?”

“I’ve always loved what I’ve seen of you. Every single bit.” Monti stepped in closer, their lips touching. She smiled as she kissed Athena again. “I love you.”

“Fuck me already.”

With a laugh, Monti answered, “Yes, ma’am.”

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