Page 120 of Sweetheart

"They're probably just blasting the music. Idid some research. This stretch of beach is supposed to be empty this time of year. The main tourist-yspots are much farther away."

"If you say so," she replied.

"So, do you understand the plan?"

My cousin shrugged. "You're going to get naked, run into the ocean, splash around like a crazy person inthe icy water, and I'm here to stand guardwhile you do it.Right?"

I smiled. "Yes, that was perfect."

"Can I ask you something?" she said.

"Sure."

"Why are you doing this again?"

Because it's on my list.

Because earlier, Sam implied that I couldn't be out of control.

Because that struck a nerve deep inside me, and now, I want to prove him—and myself—wrong.

Meeting her eyes, I said, "Because I won't let my fears stop me from getting what I want."

Aurora nodded. "And that would be…what? A cold? Sand in areas we shall not speakof?"

"Crossing something off my list, Ror."

"Cool," she said. "I've got your back."

"Thank you." I took a deep breath. "I'm doing this."

"You absolutely are."

"Now, I juststrip and dive into the ocean. Easy."

"So easy."

"You're here, and if anything happens, you'll rescue me."

"I confess I'm not the strongest swimmer, but if we go down, at least we'll go together."

I looked at her, saw her bright smile in the quickly disappearing twilight, and laughed. "Okay, turn around so I can take off my clothes."

Once I'd folded my t-shirt, pants, and undergarments and neatly placed themin a pile, I made a run for the water. Aurora was right. It was colder than I thought it would be—but it was also exhilarating.As the water swallowed me up, my head emerged a second later, andI'd never felt more free.I laughed out loud as the waves crashed against my skin.

"How is it?" Aurora called.

"Cold, but amazing," I yelled back.

"I'll take your word for it."

"You should come in, Ror. It's such a rush!"

"No thanks," she replied.

"Ah come on."

"If I do that, who's going to take care of your clothes?"

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