Playing (Inked Hearts 2)

I kick my feet. There's so much drag in the pool. It's like moving in slow motion. "He's only kidding."

"He should learn to mind his own business." Drew shakes his head. "I can't wait to get my own place."

"Oh?"

His mood lightens. "You want to come apartment shopping with me?"

"That's a girlfriend task."

"You're a girl and you're my friend."

"This kind of thing is the reason why Tom teases you."

"I'll live." He nudges me playfully. "Come on. It will be no fun if I do it alone."

My heart is racing. Racing like a freight train. But I manage a calm expression. "Sure. My internship is done by six most nights, and I don't have class Friday."

"Perfect." He leans back and looks at the moon. "I'm going to do it."

"Move?"

"Skinny dip."

My face flushes red. Thank God he's not looking at me. "You won't."

"I will if you will."

Not happening. I don't swim and I certainly don't swim naked.

I try to respond but my mouth is not cooperating. Drew naked. Must not picture Drew naked. Must not picture Drew coming out of the pool naked and dripping wet.

I press my knees together. Not helping.

"It's freezing," I say.

"You'll warm up fast."

He stands and grabs the bottom of his t-shirt like he's going to pull it off. He makes eye contact and cocks an eyebrow. A grin spreads across his face.

He pulls the t-shirt up, exposing inches of taut abs. That flutter spreads to my belly and thighs. My body is responding to an attractive body. It's instinct. It's totally out of my control.

"Next time." Drew drops his t-shirt. His offers me his hand. "Let's go inside."

He pulls me to my feet. I stumble—the concrete is wet—and he throws his arms around my waist. He squeezes me for a split second and releases me.

"Thank you." I step to the side and grab my shoes.

There's a sound in the house. More footsteps. Miles and Meg step outside. Fully clothed, thank God.

"Having fun?" Miles asks.

"Not as much fun as you two," Drew says.

Meg blushes. Miles smirks.

"Thanks for inviting me." I shove my foot into my shoe. "But I should get home."

"I'll go with you," Meg says. "If you don't mind."