Page 45 of Deep Waters
“No. This is part of the healing. Let’s get them out on the water.”
It only took a few minutes to strap on life jackets and cast off.Nauti by NatureandSailor Swiftwere nearly identical, but Rae had grinned and suggested that we takeNautiout since it had more “provisions.”
Tae and Hana clambered around the deck as I motored us into open water. Rae and I worked together to unfurl the sails. We tacked into the wind, sailing around the north end of the island. The kids waved to other boats that passed by, grinning from ear to ear.
The sun beat down on us, prompting Rae to bust out the sunscreen, scolding me to put some on. “You’re worse than the kids.”
I flicked the brim of my hat. “I’m protecting myself.”
“C’mere, Fenwick. Your arms are still exposed.”
“You’re bossy, and I like it,” I said with a toothy smile. She ran her sunscreen-slicked hands over my forearms, lingering over my biceps as she drew her hands up. I dropped a quick kiss on her mouth, pulling my gaze back to our heading when all I wanted was to sink into her.
“Now I need you to do me.” Rae held up the sunscreen.
“My pleasure.” I warmed the lotion in my hands, holding Rae’s gaze as I slid my fingers over her forearms to her shoulders, rubbing sunscreen beneath the straps of her tank top. Tempted to slide my hands lower, cup her breasts. But. Children.
I bit my lip, concentrating on covering her smooth skin evenly, painting her with my fingers in slow, sinuous strokes. “How’s that?” My voice came out so hoarse, it was almost unrecognizable.
Rae’s jaw was relaxed, her eyes mere slits. “Wonderful,” she purred, rolling her head from one side to the other. The stretch exposed her strong neck, making me wish for a nibble. But. Children.
“Later I can do more.”
“Promises, promises.” The slow way Rae smiled made me think she was anticipating more time alone just as much as I was.
We sailed around Jones Island, dropping anchor for snacks and to relax. The water was too cold for swimming, but the kids didn’t seem to mind. They waded along the rocky beach, splashing each other mercilessly until they were both drenched in saltwater. Their shouts and giggles filled the air, making me smile.
Rae snuggled under my arm, watching them play.
“I’m glad we did this.”
“Took them sailing? Me too,” Rae said.
I linked my fingers with hers, caressing her knuckles gently.
“No, not just today. All of it.” I gestured to the kids. “Watching Tae and Hana together.” I bumped my shoulder gently against her. “Kissing you.” I leaned away, holding her gaze. “Mostly kissing you.”
“We make a pretty good team.”
I snorted. “We make a fuckingfantasticteam,” I corrected, dropping a noisy kiss across her knuckles.
She giggled, the sound showering me in sunshine. Peace. A comfortable silence enveloped us, punctuated by Hana and Tae’s laughter.
“How’s the half-marathon training going?” she asked as Hana took off chasing Tae after he splashed her.
I groaned, the sound long and low. I shook my head. “Don’t remind me. Lee has been making me run with him at lunch. That bastard actuallylikesthe hills. I need a new running buddy.”
Her gentle laughter warmed me, bringing a smile to my face. “I’m not volunteering,” she cautioned, clapping me on the knee. “You need guy time. I’m glad you and Lee are preparing for the half together.”
“But now he’s talking about a full marathon.” I pulled a sad face, turning beseeching eyes on Rae. “He’s a monster.”
“Pssh. You love it.”
“Notthatmuch.”
“Hmm. Either way, the kids and I will come cheer you on next weekend.”
A happy squirm wound its way through my chest. It sounded like she was proud of me. Even though I’d done the half-marathon with Lee before, it was sweet.
