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Twelve
Leon
Havana stepped out of the washroom, and I almost choked on the grape I was eating. Punching my chest, I discreetly spit the fruit out on my hand, and dropped it to the floor.
“I look ridiculous,” she said, covering herself with her arms.
Trying to act casual, because she looked anything less than ridiculous, I shook my head. “No, love. You look perfect.”
“Ugh,” she groaned. “I really have to wear this? Does everybody wear this?” She sat on the couch, frowning.
“Males and females. Everyone has something similar on. We stopped the nude area many years ago.”
“Nude,” she said with a mouth full of cheese. “People walked around here nude?”
I leaned forward and picked up the pitcher. “Care for a drink?
“What’s in it?”
“A little bit of wine, juice, and berries.”
“Sure.” She took one cup and held it out. I poured her a drink then poured myself one.
I raised my glass. “To new adventures.”
She swallowed the piece of cheese in her mouth and smiled wide, revealing two perfect little dimples. “To new adventures.” She clinked her glass against mine.
Leaning back, I watched her eat and drink, not quite ready to leave the cabana. Out here, away from the ship, I didn’t need to worry about the crew or what new orders from the magi would come in, sending us away again. It was just us.
Grabbing another piece of apple, she tapped one of her feet against the floor. Not normally one to stare at toes, I noticed how perfectly shaped hers were.
“Anything you want to do first?” I said, giving her the opportunity to set the day even though I had plans of my own.
“I’d really like to meet a mermaid.” Biting into a chunk of cheese, she looked down at her feet as if the question was a foolish one.
“We can do that. Come on.” Putting the glass down, I held out my hand.
She frowned, looking at her outfit again. I tried to ignore how the suit hugged her thin body, showcasing the delicate curves.
“I feel ridiculous.” Her shoulders sagged.
“Hey.” I motioned for her to take my hand.
With a loud sigh, she stood and placed her hand in mine. I tugged her against my chest, gripping her waist with my other hand. Her cheeks reddened as she gazed up at me, her hazel eyes sparkling with curiosity. She wore her hair down today, and I loved how the soft waves fell across her bare shoulders.
I brushed her hair back, tucking it behind her ear, grazing her face. Her cheeks warmed and her mouth parted slightly.
“No one out there is as beautiful as you. Those mermaids are going to be jealous.”
She smiled and her gaze darted away from me. “You’re just being foolish. I can’t compare to a mermaid.”
Cupping her chin, I lowered my head until our noses almost touched. “If I didn’t already promise to be a gentleman, I would have you right here on these cushions.”
She closed her eyes, leaning into my touch, the gesture sending a surge of want through me. It’d be hard to keep my hands off her, but I would do it. I would be her guide and let her enjoy anything her heart desired. If part of that desire was for me, all the better.
Gently brushing my thumb across her jawline, I lifted her chin, careful not to touch the cut that was still healing. “Trust your captain, love. Now, are you ready for some fun?”
She opened her eyes, smiling. “Aye-aye, Captain.”
