Page 96 of Ride the Wave

But that will have to wait

Dad and I are going to my uncle’s house. You want to come?

I pause. This could be an innocent invitation – speaking to family and friends is par for the course when it comes to these big features. Leo’s uncle could be a valuable resource, but since I already have my interview with Adriano and I’m hoping to weave in quotes from Marina, or another of his local surf friends here, word count is already looking tight.

And after what’s happened between us, meeting other family members just seems a bit… weird. I’d be nervous and confused, naturally wanting him to think well of me, butwhy? Sex is one thing, but emotional attachment is another, and family dinners is the sort of thing that leads to that. I’m already a little too invested in this guy. We’re on the clock here.

If ever there was a time for self-preservation, this is it.

I’d love to, but I have to work

Leo

No worries

At least if you’re writing about me, I know you’ll be thinking of me

How do you know I’m working on your feature? I might have another commission There are a lot of talented, amazing athletes out there, you know

Leo

You really are trying to make me jealous

Is it working?

Leo

Yes. Tell me when I can see you again

Now, my brain begs. But he was the one who wanted to play it cool last night, refusing to stay over, even when I practically begged him to. Maybe I need to regain some control here.

Tomorrow might work

Leo

Second date tomorrow night then?

What are you doing early tomorrow morning?

I’m surfing Meia Praia

We have a Levant swell, can’t miss it

I could pick you up if you want to come?

You might be bored of training now

No, sounds good, thanks I’m just going to google ‘Levant swell’

Leo

My dad can talk you through it tomorrow. See you then xx

Kisses. Kisses at the end of his message. My fingers hover over the keyboard of my phone, no idea what to do or how to reply. But he goes offline swiftly after that, concluding the exchange. Concluding it with kisses. How stupid is it that two little letters can cause such an effect? Flirty messages I can handle, but this feels different. Just a simple ‘xx’ and our conversation feels intimate. Meaningful. Affectionate. I’m glad that message didn’t require a reply, because I don’t know if I can echo the sentiment.

Not when I’m saying goodbye in six days.

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