Thirty-One

Gritty sand stuck to our bodies, and I enjoyed the coconut water and, most especially, Ziah's company. He made me feel worthy and cherished.

His hands traced the contours of my body, and his pupils were fathomless and filled with desire.

"I want you to break things off with George."

He hushed out the words, and if the beach had not been quiet, I would have missed them.

Pretending not to have heard, I kept sipping my drink. A raging beast of need was in his eyes, and he ran his fingers up my side.

"Did you hear what I said? I want you to break up with George. He's not the right guy for you."

I sat up slowly, acting closed off and pretending not to give a damn about his opinion.

Even though I didn't love George, it didn't mean that I should listen to Ziah.

"I can't do that," I said firmly.

A flash of annoyance crossed his face. Then it disappeared, and he stared blankly at me.

"Why not?" he asked, keeping his tone gentle.

I picked up rigid seashells and rubbed them between my finger and