22

As we prepared to leave, she jumped up onto the boat and pulled my legs over her shoulders, her mischievous grin making my heart skip a beat. She was never this excited about the airboats.

I leaned down, putting her ear protection on and adjusting it carefully. "This is the weirdest way I've ever driven one of these, but I like it, I guess," I said, chuckling.

"Does it make it dangerous?" she asked, the concern returning to her eyes.

I laughed, shaking my head. "Non, cherie. It's just different. Actually gives me more balance, me."

As we sped back to the packhouse, I could feel her excitement growing. She was starting to enjoy the ride, the thrill of the speed, and the wind whipping through her hair. She felt safer with my legs wrapped around her. This way, I was holding onto her as she held onto me. It was so cute and so awkward.

Pushing the speed a little more, I felt her grip tighten around my legs. Her laughter was carried away by the rushing air.

I let the boat idle and asked if