Page 65 of Not the Bodyguard's Widow
“Did I throw up on Agent Danes?”
“No, you missed him.”But I wish you hadn’t.
Splash. “Too bad. By the way, you handled my sickness well. Believe me, as much morning sickness as I’ve had over the years, I know when someone can—” She didn’t speak for several seconds. “Sorry, I lost my train of thought.” Kimberly spoke slowly, her voice deeper than before.
“It happens.”
A few more splashes. “I think I have a problem.”
Alex shot to his feet. “What?”
“There must have been oil in the bath bomb I used. The tub is really slick, and I don’t dare stand up.”
“Do you want me to get Elle?”
“I don’t think she is tall enough to get me out of here. The tub is deep”
“But she can help.”
“I’m so embarrassed.”
Alex rubbed the back of his head. “Can you reach any towels from where you are sitting?”
Splash. Splash. “Yes, there are three of them.”
“Good, let the water out. When it is empty, put one in the tub, like a bathmat.’’
He heard the water draining out of the tub. Faster than he expected, the sound deepened and slowed.
“It’s empty.”
“Can you stand up now?”
“I think so.”
Alex listened for a thump or bump. He was ready to run in whether she was dressed or not. “Wrap up in the other towels. Don’t try to get out. Your feet could be slippery.’”
“Okay.”
“Are you decent?”
“As much as I can get. Fortunately, these towels are huge.”
“Coming in.” Alex pushed the door open; only the slightest glow came from the overhead lights, and the moonlight glistened off her shoulders. The way she held her arms around the towel reminded him of theBirth of Venuspainting one of Candace’s roommates had reproduced on a cupboard at Art House.
“This is so embarrassing.”
“Better embarrassed than hurt.” He held out his hand, but Kimberly shook her head.
“I’m afraid to let go of my towels. I don’t think we are at a point where I can flash you without both of us dying of embarrassment.”
True.“Do you trust me to scoop you out?’’
Kimberly turned sideways. “Is this easier?’’
Alex scooped her up and pulled her tight to his chest.Now what?The tile floor could be treacherous if she still had oil on her feet. He carried her to the bed and gently set her down, careful to not disturb the towels.
“Thanks, Alex.” Her breath warmed his face.
