The Deal

Chapter Seven - Escaping Reality

My jaw dropped at the sight. My eyes overlooked the glistening white sand beach. The cerulean blue water shimmered, blinding my eyes as the rays of sun hit the ocean. It was almost empty— we had the whole beach to ourselves.

"Jonas, this is beautiful.." I said as I studied the location.

"It only gets better," he interlocked his fingers with mine, and I did the same.

This could not get any better. Here I was, at a beautiful beach, holding hands with Jonas Thompson. We continued walking until we reached an area in the sand to place towels and an umbrella.

"You brought a swimsuit, right?" He asked, and I nodded.

We both changed out of our clothes, and into our swimwear. I picked out a white strapless fringe bikini, and threw my hair up in a bun.

Jonas had his swimming trunks on, and as he pulled his shirt over his head, my eyes locked on his six pack. I looked away a second too late. He noticed me staring and laughed, before he looked at me up and down.

He glanced back up to meet my eyes. "Let's go."

We ran towards the shore, as the cold water hit our feet. I shrieked and tried to escape the coolness of the water, but Jonas pulled me back in by the waist. He pushed me deeper into the water, and I was about halfway in as the waves swished against my hips.

"I didn't know the water would be this cold!" I exclaimed.

"It's not that bad, when you get used to it," he grinned. "Come closer."

I took a step forward until I was standing right in front of him. He placed his hands on my waist. I focused on Jonas. Everything seemed still and perfect. Was this really happening?

My heart felt like it was about to pump out of my chest. I looked into his hazel eyes, that now appeared as a lovely shade of green. For a split second, I thought he was going to kiss me. But then, he let go of me, and took a step back. I tried to hide the slight disappointment on my face. Stop, Elena. This is reality, not a dumb fantasy in your head. I shrugged it off, as he suddenly splashed cold water into my face.

I yelped, as I returned the favour. I watched, when water droplets cascaded down his chest. I could feel the inside of my stomach being tickled, as he ruffles his dripping wet hair with his hand.

———

We got out of the water once it began to get cold. We dried off, and a gust of wind hit my bare skin. I shivered.

"Are you cold? Here, take this." He tossed me his sweatshirt.

"What about you?"

"I'm okay, I'm wearing a long sleeved shirt anyway." He assured.

"Okay.. Thank you." I hesitated as I put on the sweatshirt.

As cliche as it was, I couldn't help my flushing cheeks when I breathed in his musky scent. When we decided to leave, I had so many thoughts in my head. Why did he ask me out? How is this happening? Yet, these questions were left to be unanswered as he pulled up in my driveway. He walked me to my doorstep.

"Thank you, Jonas. Today was.. perfect." I smiled, as I returned his sweatshirt.

"No problem. So.. I'll see you again sometime?"  He slid his hands into the front pockets of his jeans.

"Yes! I mean, yeah. Sure." I blushed, as he chuckled. That smile again..

———

The next day, I walked over to the Sullivans' house to see Jay, and tell him all about Jonas. I smiled at the thought of him, as I knocked on the front door.