Page 133 of Ripped Veil (Ripped Bratva)

“I’ll sink,” I say, slightly panicked.

“You will because your fear will sink you,” he says calmly. “But I’m going to support you while you get used to this.”

He puts his palm on the small of my back and tilts me back. I go down, guided by his hands.

I face the sky as I float, extremely aware of his touch underneath me. Five points of fire against my exposed skin.

“Relax, Elyssa.”

“I am!”

“No, you’re not. Remember what I said: fear will sink you.”

“I—I don’t think I can…”

“I’m not going to let you go, okay?” He moves a little closer so that he’s looking down directly at me. “I’ll never let you go.”

“Okay,” I whisper.

“You trust me?”

“I… yes.”

He nods. “Then close your eyes and take a deep breath.”

I do as he says, and I feel the weight on my chest ease.

Just a little, but it’s enough. And just like that…

I float.

* * *

We spend the next hour going through different things. Phoenix teaches me to submerge myself in water and open my eyes. He teaches me to float without his hand supporting me.

Once I can float with my head in the water, I start gaining confidence and enthusiasm.

By the end of the second hour, I can swim a few feet in a straight line. It’s not amazing, but it’s more than I could do two hours ago. And it’s a heady feeling.

“Wow! I can swim!” I exclaim when Phoenix declares it’s time for a break.

“I wouldn’t go that far,” he chuckles. “But you’ve made a lot of progress in a short amount of time. I’m impressed.”

“I’ve impressed you?” I snort. “High praise.”

We’re both leaning against the edge of the pool. There are only a few inches between us, but he’s taken care not to touch me unless he absolutely has to.

Still, the energy between us is as calm as it’s ever been. Which is why I decide to take a chance.

“Phoenix?”

“Yes?”

“Charity’s my best friend. She’s the only family I have.”

He glances at me, his expression cautious. “I’m aware of that.”

“She’s also a good person. She just… she doesn’t trust easily. And she’s worried about me and Theo.”

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