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Huh.
Not terrible.
Thankfully, she has the good sense not to gloat, even when I grudgingly take the piece she snaps off and wrap it in foil for later.
“Now that we’re all fueled up...” She tucks the rest back into her bag and fastens it so it’s waterproof again before slotting it into her kayak just like I showed her.
I think it’s an act of defiance more than anything—proving she doesn’t need to be told twice.
She’s not afraid of a challenge, and she’s certainly not holding anything back.
Ignoring how much her weird attitude amuses me, I hold out her paddle.
She takes it, fingers brushing mine, and I ignore that too.
“This is your greatest tool when you’re out there on the water. Treat it like an extension of your own arms.”
“Yes, sir.”
I glower.
“See these rubber rings?” I nudge her hands into place so she’s gripping the right spots. Awareness jolts up my body when I sense her skin against mine.
Dummy, get a grip.
Don’t let the oats go to your head.
Destiny freezes.
I clear my throat, knowing this entire endeavor depends on us trusting each other.
“Sorry,” I whisper raggedly.
“No, it’s fine.” Her voice is taut with concentration and she doesn’t look at me. “Is this right, bossman?”
“Yes, but don’t grip it so hard. Loosen your fingers a little.” I demonstrate on my paddle, showing her what I mean and leading her through the motions with the right grip.
She mirrors me almost flawlessly, though her movements are still a little stiff.
“The paddle is part of you,” I say.
“Um, maybe not yet.” Her eyes narrow as she assesses what she’s doing, then glances up at me. “Why don’t I look like you?”
“Practice. You’ll find the right movements after a few hours on the water. For now, let’s try something else.” I leave my paddle where it is and stride around her until her back is almost touching my chest.
Then I lean around her, my hands beside hers.
Of fucking course, our thumbs brush.
Just the lightest touch, and it’s still too much.
Ignore.Ignore.
Destiny inhales sharply, and I guess she’s uncomfortable because she takes an involuntary step forward.
Well, why not?
She does have a massive fucking idiot here who keeps invading her personal space.
