Page 83 of Haze of Obedience
13
Dirk
Zoe hasn't saidmuch since we got back into the kayak. The few times I've tried to get back into our banter, it's not been successful. She said I did everything right this time, but her silence creates doubt that maybe she's regretting our kiss.
I wish I knew what she was thinking.
For hours we paddle, passing several resorts. There are two major river openings in the bay. The first is the Belize/Guatemalan territory line, which we passed earlier in the day. The second is directly across from the tip of the peninsula.
I stop paddling. "Zoe, we have to make a decision."
She turns. "What are the choices?"
"We can keep paddling along the coast or cut across. Following the beach will take longer, but it could get choppy if we cut across."
"It's been calm for a bit now."
"That could change at any time. We could get stuck in it."
She studies the path to the peninsula. With a big smile, she says, "We have lifevests on for a reason, right?"
"Are you telling me you want to take the chance of possibly tipping over in the middle of the bay?"
"Are you scared?"
I snort. "Me. No. I don't want to put you in any danger."
"Are you sure this doesn't have anything to do with your inner fears?"
"Ha ha."
"I say we go for it, country boy."
"All right, my Little Diva. Let's hope this water doesn't turn."
We paddle towards the tip, and the further away from land we get, the rougher the water becomes. A wave washes over the boat and soaks us.
"Holy moly!" she cries out.
"You're doing great, Zoe. Keep paddling."
The closer we get to the peak, the rougher the water gets. Another wave washes over the kayak.
We're going to get killed out here.
"Dig left. We need to get to shore," I yell.
We turn the vessel and head toward the sandy beach.
There's a resort with kayaks, hobby cats, and paddleboards on shore. The kayaks are the same color as ours.
"Zoe, keep your glasses and hat on. Don't talk."
She nods.
We get to shore and jump out. After I pull the boat on shore, I sling my backpack over my shoulder and put my arm around Zoe. I wave to the young man who works for the resort. He's talking to a few girls in their bikinis and isn't paying too much attention to us.
Once we're past him and onto the paved walkway, she murmurs, "Where are we going now?"
