Chapter 72 Another Memory

• There was a pause. A long one. The air between us shifted, not heavy, not light… just quiet, like it was holding its breath along with me. I looked away, breaking the intensity of his gaze, needing space to breathe.
• “I need to get out,” I said softly, barely above a whisper.
• Kyle didn’t ask why. Didn’t push. He just swam closer, silently, and gently guided the swim ring toward the edge. His hands were steady on either side, not rushing, not careless just careful. Once we reached the edge, he climbed out first, then turned and held his hands out to me.