Page 38 of Daddy Down Under

Ocean’s lips quirked into a gentle smile. “You’re not used to genuine compliments, are you?”

I shook my head, chuckling softly. “Is it that obvious?”

“Only to someone who’s paying attention, which I am.”

He was. I’d never been the sole focus of anyone’s attention the way I was with him, and I couldn’t even begin to describe what it did to me.

“You know,” Ocean said, returning his gaze to the water, “the river reminds me of life. Always flowing, always changing. You can try to control it, but in the end, it’s better to learn how to ride the current.”

I chuckled softly. “Everything’s a water metaphor with you, isn’t it?”

He grinned, unabashed. “Guilty as charged. But am I wrong?”

I considered his words, watching a leaf float on the river’s surface. “You’re not wrong. I’ve spent so much of my life trying to control every aspect of it. It’s exhausting.”

Ocean’s hand squeezed mine, sending a jolt through my body. “Freedom isn’t about having no responsibilities, Cash. It’s about choosing which ones matter most to you.”

His words hit me hard. “I’ve always equated success with control. The idea of letting go terrifies me.”

Ocean’s gaze was steady, understanding. “But you’re here now, aren’t you? Taking a chance on a day with me, practically a stranger. That’s pretty brave in my book.”

I felt a warmth spread through my chest that had nothing to do with the sun. “Maybe I’m learning to ride the current after all. Also, you’re not a stranger. Not anymore.”

His smile made everything go weak. “Thank you,” he said softly, then leaned in to capture my mouth in a searing kiss.

“I’m getting pretty tired,” I admitted once I could speak again.

“Same. Let’s head to the Eureka Skydeck for dinner. The sunset from up there is absolutely killer.”

“You don’t think it’s booked at such short notice?”

Ocean laughed. “I made a reservation two days ago, and honestly, I doubt there’s a whole lot I can’t accomplish when mentioning your name. Even here.”

“But how did you…? I hadn’t even agreed to go sightseeing with you.”

He shrugged. “I was confident in my powers of persuasion.”

I wasn’t sure if I should be annoyed or impressed. Maybe both at the same time? “Not without reason,” I said with a sigh. “I have a hard time saying no to you.”

“So maybe stop fighting it and say yes.”

“I can see how that would be easy for you.”

“But for you as well.” Ocean grabbed my chin, forcing eye contact. “I’d never do anything to hurt you, Cash. I hope you’re starting to see that by now.”

“Yes.” My voice cracked, and I cleared my throat. “Doesn’t mean it’s easy for me to give up control.”

“I know…” His expression softened. “But it’ll be worth it. I promise, Cash, it’ll be so worth it.”

The intensity in his gaze made me squirm, and I took a step back. “I’ll try. That’s all I have right now, Ocean. Please don’t ask for more.”

He looked disappointed for a moment but then schooled his expression again. “I’ll wait until you’re ready.”

Ready for what? I had so many questions about this whole exchange. He wanted me to give up control, to let him lead…but to what? What did he want to do with me? I could hardly ask without revealing how much I was considering it, and that was a power I wasn’t ready to hand over to Ocean yet.

“Let’s head to the Eureka building,” he said, and once again, I followed his lead. “I love the food there, though it may not be quite up to your usual standards, but if that’s the case, the view will make up for a lot.”

It did. We were seated at an intimate table near the window, and I couldn’t stop staring outside. The city sprawled beneath us, a tapestry of lights and shadows stretching to the horizon.

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