Chapter 16
Paddleboat Adventures
The following afternoon, Clara suggested a trip to Willow Creek Lake again—but this time, for paddleboats. The sun glinted off the water, and a gentle breeze made the day feel perfect.
“You know,” Liam said, securing a bright yellow paddleboat, “I’m starting to think you plan all these adventures just to see me struggle.”
Clara laughed, stepping into the boat. “Maybe… but you seem to enjoy it.”
Liam grinned. “I do. Somehow, even my failures feel fun with you around.”
They pushed off from the dock and began paddling toward the middle of the lake. At first, everything was smooth—until Liam misstepped, sending them spinning in a circle, laughing uncontrollably as water splashed over the sides.
“You call that paddling?” Clara teased, wiping water from her face.
“It’s advanced technique,” Liam shot back, splashing her lightly.
They continued like that, splashing each other, laughing, and racing toward the opposite shore. Clara felt lighter than she had in weeks, every giggle and playful splash making her heart swell.
After a while, they floated in the middle of the lake, catching their breath. Liam leaned back, eyes on Clara. “You make everything… better. Even spinning in circles and getting soaked.”
Clara smiled, brushing her fingers over his wet hair. “And you make ordinary things feel extraordinary. I guess that’s why I like being with you.”
He reached for her hand, squeezing it gently. “I like being with you too… more than I expected.”
For a few quiet moments, they simply held hands, letting the gentle sway of the boat and the calm of the water wrap around them. No words were necessary—their laughter, touches, and shared smiles spoke volumes.
As they paddled back to shore, Clara realized that summer wasn’t just about adventures or sun-soaked days—it was about the quiet, tender moments too. And with Liam, every moment, whether chaotic or calm, felt like it belonged to them.