Page 28 of Strawberry Moon
I stand up to watch them head towards the beach hut. The breeze hits me, and I shiver.
Harry stands up next to me. “Come on. Time to go in. You’re getting cold.”
“I was cold when Istartedthis endeavour.”
He grins at me, his teeth white in his handsome face. “But are you enjoying it?”
The truth is, I feel so alive it’s as if every molecule in my body has woken up and is strumming with energy. I grin widely at him. “Oh my god, I love it somuch. It’s been fucking epic. I’m pretty sure my testicles have packed up and headed for warmer climes, but I still love it. I’mbuzzing.” He’s staring at me, and I cock my head. “What?”
“You’re amazing,” he says softly.
“Why?”
“Because you throw yourself into everything and you have this effervescent spirit that makes everyone smile.”
I draw in a shocked breath, as his words reach down and bathe my heart in warmth. “I think that’s the nicest thing that anyone has ever said to me.”
“Well, that’s a shame, but I’m glad I’m the first.” His smile is diffident and yet deeply personal. “I’m so glad you agreed to come this weekend, Clem. It’s been… It’s been wonderful.”
He pulls me to him, and I slide against his body, twining around him and letting him hold me up. His kiss is gentle, his lips warm, and I taste the salt on them. He smiles against my lips, and it must be contagious because I return the smile, grinning and chuckling as he pulls away. He starts to walk backto the shore, and I follow him, helpless to resist the pull of my gentle Harry.
CHAPTER FIVE
Once we’ve got changed, we grab the deckchairs and place them on the beach. We sit and eat our bacon sandwiches as we watch the waves. People wander past who are obviously locals, as Harry and his parents greet them with smiles and waves.
Harry’s a different man here, his hair dried into salty waves, his face full of energy, and his eyes so bright. I wonder how I can help him be like this at home. More play and less work are my conclusions.
The conversation is easy and light, and his parents don’t stray to the subject of our relationship. I have a feeling this is because Holly believes Harry has a tell when he’s lying. If they’ve guessed the truth about Harry and me starting out as fake boyfriends, they show no sign of it, and I relax even more. I like his family.
Eventually, Graham checks his watch and huffs. “We ought to go, Holly,” he says to his wife. “We need to get changed for the lunch.”
Harry glances at me and smiles. “It’s the pre-wedding lunch at a swanky hotel.”
His dad tuts. “It’ll be a finger buffet, and I’ll come away hungry as usual.”
“I prefer your bacon sandwiches,” I tell him.
He grins and points a finger at me. “Bring this one back,” he instructs his son. “There’s been nary a word about the emotional benefits of fisting.”
“Oh mygod,” Harry groans, and I break into laughter.
They get to their feet and his mum kisses us both on the cheek. “Are you sure you don’t fancy coming, darling?” she asks Harry.
“I’d rather cover myself in chips and let the seagulls take me,” he says solemnly.
His dad guffaws. “I wishI’dthought of that excuse.”
They turn and make their way back up the path. His mum looks back, calling, “We might see you tonight, Harry. It depends on if we go to visit your grandfather.”
Harry nods and waves, and we watch them walk out of sight.
“I’m confused,” I tell Harry. “Aren’t we going to the wedding festivities too?”
He shakes his head. “No, I thought we’d have the day to ourselves. I can show you around this part of Norfolk and we’ll grab lunch out.”
“And they won’t be back until tonight,” I say slowly.
He must get my meaning, because his eyes darken as he scans my face. “Are you sure?” he asks in a thick voice.
