I can’t control my emotions.
The awful thought of what he’d done kept me at bay for years. And now that I know he actually saved me from the worst at his expense, the feelings are back.
I study him as he ducks into the water, then comes out onto the shallower surface, up to his waist.
When he is not looking, I study him quite a bit, learning his tattoos. There is a tiger on his back. Some mythical creatures in dark vibrant colors on his legs. Scales. Floral ornaments. Bold shapes. Card suits.
He is like God.
Inked.
Glorious.
Strong.
I want to be next to him.
I want to wrap myself around him.
I drink him in as he wipes water off his face, then rakes his hands through his hair. And I want to do it for him.
He turns abruptly, his eyes on me. The seconds that our eyes stay locked burn me to the core, and I look away so he doesn’t see me blush.
I am so screwed.
25
KAI
It comesfrom out of nowhere. As always.
Suddenly, the sky gets darker, and I’m thinking, fuck, we stayed too late. The dark clouds start rolling from behind the jungle on the Eastside.
“Oh, shit!”
“Guys!”
“We have to move!”
Everyone starts scrambling, making their way to the bank and the path that leads to the village.
We are over two hours away. And if the downpour starts, it will get dark before we reach home.
But no one seems too concerned, giggling and pushing and shoving as they dress.
“Guys! Watch your step! Stay close!” Maddy shouts.
She is a fucking camp counselor and our mother. She is younger than most, but everyone always listens.
The heavy drops land on my head and skin like pebbles.
“Ooooh, shit!” The boys howl.
We all know that we are a little too late.
And then it comes down fast and hard like a wall, and the girls squeal.
We are used to tropical showers. We embrace them. And now we have new people in our camp. It’s exhilarating. There is no waiting this out—just running through it.