Chapter 27

Laura POV

The air tastes so fresh. That might sound like a silly thing to say, but it does. I lift my heap towards the sky and take down a large inhale of oxygen.

The cold water of the lake laps around my ankles, and the gentle breeze brushes my skin. This is true freedom. It’s like experiencing nature for the first time.

Maxwell walks ahead of me in the lake. I try not to stare at his impressive back muscles, but I can’t help my eyes instinctively gravitate towards him. Before he can get past his knees, he turns back to me.

Those blue eyes sparkle with calmness, despite being splashed seconds ago. I don’t know what came over me; it felt like a natural reaction. It certainly released a burst of amusement through my veins. I can’t remember the last time I laughed.

The sound was alien, but it felt good, it federating.

He holds out his hand gently, flashing his palm. “Come with me,” he says. “You’ll warm up once you’re in.”

I chew on my lip as I focus on the callouses across his finger