Evaline:
I tried very hard to ignore the way Oscar was staring at me... tried, and failed.
His gaze followed me as I walked toward the steps leading into the pool, and I could practically feel the weight of it on my skin - slow, unapologetic, and appreciative.
My cheeks warmed slightly, but I pretended not to notice. Instead, I focused on the water.
I untied the robe around my waist and let it slide off my shoulders, letting the soft fabric pool quietly on the stone floor behind me.
For a split second, the air felt very still.
Then I stepped down the first stair.
The warm water wrapped around my feet immediately, and a small sigh escaped my lips.
By the time I descended another step, the water had climbed past my knees. Then my waist. Then higher.
I continued down until it reached my chest, letting the warmth completely surround me.
It felt wonderful against the winter chill that had followed me from outside.
