SUMMER FEVER

8 | THEN

SUMMER VAN DOREN
15 years ago

"You know, I think you're afraid because we get along so well. I think it scares you, Yves."

In the days following our boat ride, I had made it my personal mission to continue to pester and annoy Yves at every opportunity. I found endless ways to get under his skin. And I think I liked it. A bit sadistic maybe, but true. I didn't have to many friends at this time. So the ones I saw potential in, I made sure to leave claw marks on.

a secluded cove tucked away at the edge of the island, its entrance hidden by towering cliffs and lush greenery. As you approach, the sound of crashing waves grows louder, beckoning you closer.

At low tide, a narrow opening in the cliff face reveals a hidden passage leading into the heart of the cove.

As the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, I felt a surge of excitement as I led Yves towards the secluded cove, a place I had cherished for years. It was a sanctuary I longed to share with him, a spot where we could meet in secret without worrying about our parents.

Navigating through the familiar path, I couldn't help but foresee Yves' reaction as we approached the hidden entrance. The crashing waves served as a welcoming melody, growing louder with each step, enticing us closer to the haven concealed by towering cliffs and lush greenery.

At low tide, the cliff face revealed its hidden passage, unveiling the heart of the cove. Inside, the smooth walls of the cave were adorned with delicate seashells and sparkling minerals, illuminated by sunlight filtering through the cracks in the ceiling.

Inside, the walls of the cave are smooth and weathered, adorned with delicate seashells and sparkling minerals. Sunlight filters through cracks in the ceiling, casting dappled patterns of light on the sandy floor below.

A soft, salty breeze drifted in from the sea, carrying with it the distant cries of seagulls and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore. The air was cool and refreshing, a welcome respite from the heat of the island sun.

As we settled into the cozy alcove near the back of the cave, I couldn't shake the mischievous glint in my eye. It was a moment of triumph, having finally brought Yves to this secret haven, a place where we could be ourselves away from the prying eyes of the world.

The salty breeze whispered secrets as it drifted through the cave, mingling with our laughter and the distant cries of seagulls. I watched as Yves took in the tranquil beauty around us, his eyes wide with wonder.

Yves cleared his throat. "Summer?"

I nodded.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Always."

"Why do you keep pushing this?" He asked, his voice tinged with curiosity as he turned to face me. "You and me?"

His question hung in the air, breaking the tranquil atmosphere of our secret sanctuary. I paused for a moment, considering his words. Why indeed? Perhaps it was the thrill of defying expectations, of forging a bond that transcended the boundaries set by our families. Or maybe it was simply the undeniable connection I felt whenever we were together, a connection that I couldn't quite explain but knew was real.

"I guess... because I enjoy it," I finally admitted, meeting his gaze with a mixture of defiance and sincerity. "You're my friend, whether you like it or not."

He quirked a brow.

I grinned, scooting closer to him. "Am I your friend, too?"

Yves studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, with a small smile, he reached out and gently squeezed my hand. "I guess I have to admit, I kind of like having you around."

I couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth at Yves's admission. His small smile spoke volumes, easing the tension that had lingered between us. With a playful grin, I leaned in closer, our shoulders touching as we sat in the comforting embrace of our hidden sanctuary.

"Good to know," I replied, my voice laced with playful banter. "Because I don't plan on going anywhere."

Yves chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Well, I've already endured your constant presence for this long," he quipped, a playful smirk gracing his lips. "I suppose I can handle a little more."

I playfully swatted his arm, pretending to be offended. "Hey, watch it," I teased, unable to suppress my grin. "You wouldn't last a day without me."

Yves raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Oh believe me, I've survived way worse."

Yves's playful retort caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but laugh at his confident demeanor. "Is that so?" I replied, feigning indignation while secretly enjoying our banter.