Page 19 of Tempting My Nemesis

I hand her another plate of fruit, our fingers brushing again. This time, I don’t pull away as quickly.

"So," I say, trying to shift the focus back to her. "What’s your favorite memory with your father?"

A soft smile spreads across her face as she thinks back.

"There was this one time he took me to his workshop... He was so passionate about his work—it was contagious."

Listening to her talk about her father makes something inside me soften further. She’s been through hell but still finds joy in those memories.

"You’re stronger than you think," I murmur.

She looks at me with a candidness that mirrors my own feelings. “Maybe we both are.”

We continue talking—about our pasts, our fears—finding common ground in ways I never imagined possible. With each word exchanged, the pull toward her strengthens despite my attempts to keep my distance.

The late morning sun climbs higher in the sky as we sit by the water—a small sanctuary from our complicated lives. For once, letting someone in doesn't feel like a risk; it feels like relief.

As we pack up the picnic, I find myself reluctant to end this moment. The ease between us is intoxicating, and I'm not ready to let it go. An idea strikes me.

"Have you ever been sailing?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

Zoe shakes her head, a curious glint in her eye. "No, but I've always wanted to try."

I can't help the smile that tugs at my lips. "Well, today's your lucky day. I've got a boat docked nearby."

Her face lights up with excitement, and something warm unfurls in my chest. As we make our way to the marina, I find myself looking forward to sharing this part of my world with her.

The sun is high, casting a shimmering path on the ocean's surface as we sail. The boat cuts through the water with a smooth, steady rhythm. Zoe stands beside me, her fingers grazing the ropes as she watches my hands intently.

"Hold it steady," I instruct, my voice low and close to her ear. Her scent mixed with the salty air invades my senses. I’m hyper-aware of her every move.

She glances back at me with a teasing smile. "I’m holding steady."

My pulse quickens. Being this close to her makes my head spin, but I keep my voice calm.

"Good. Now, adjust the sail."

I move behind her, guiding her hands on the ropes. Her skin is warm against mine, sending longing rushing through me. I’ve taught people to sail a hundred times. Why does this feel different?

"You’re a quick learner," I say, lips curving into a smirk. "Maybe I’ll let you take the helm next time."

Zoe’s laugh cuts through my usual brooding thoughts like sunlight piercing through the clouds. "You better. I’m not just here to watch."

"Alright," I murmur, leaning closer than necessary to adjust her grip on the rope. "Now pull it towards you—like this." My hand covers hers, guiding her movements.

Her breath hitches, and she turns slightly to look at me, eyes glinting with mischief and something deeper. "Got it," she whispers.

Her closeness and the way she looks at me sends my heart fluttering.

We continue sailing, our movements synchronized. Her laughter is carried on the wind, and for a moment, I forget to focus on the task at hand. The warmth of her body so close to mine makes my pulse quicken again.

"Caleb," she says softly, breaking me from my thoughts.

"Yeah?" My voice is rougher than I intend.

"Thanks for this," she murmurs.

"For what?"

---