Chapter 8
Chapter Eight
Maximillian
“Of course, if you join me, there are some ground rules,” Zoe suddenly says, and I freeze mid-pivot. Here I was, all excited about her invitation, and of course, she had to come up with something to stop me from enjoying what could be the best night of my life in a long—very long—time.
“What are these rules?” I ask, trying to calm my excitement and remind myself that no matter what happens tonight, my dick doesn’t get to play with Zoe. Now, my mouth though . . . my mouth is ready for her. It’s my civic duty to save her from the tormented life she lived with Tom the Tool.
“You can jump into the water, but with your underwear—no commando for you,” she begins, and I grin because that’s not happening.
“Sorry, but I don’t wear any,” I say, smirking, hoping that information flusters her.
“Oh,” she barely whispers. “Well, then you have to get swim trunks or you don’t get to come into the water with me.”
What the ever-loving fuck? Is she for real?
“That’s not fair,” I argue, feeling like a kid who’s just been told the ice cream truck is out of popsicles.
“This is the challenge, McCallister. You have to follow my rules—you can’t break any of them,” she dares me, her voice dripping with smug satisfaction.
“What if I don’t agree?” I challenge her, crossing my arms like a pouty toddler.
“I’m out of here because that means you’re not playing fair,” she says. And fuck, she just found a loophole and a way to either get out of this little dare or make me suffer.
“So you want me to wear swim trunks, is that all?” I ask because I want her to enjoy her night. She has to let go of that stick up her adorable behind and live a little.
“That’s right, big boy,” she teases. “Think you can handle it?”
“And that’s the only rule?” I ask, hope rising in my chest .
“Of course not. No, there’s more. You can’t see me while we’re in the pool—or touch me, of course.”
I burst into uncontrollable laughter. “You minx. You invite me all innocently to join you and then suddenly stab me with your legalities.”
“Yep. Take it or leave it,” she challenges, sounding far too pleased with herself.
I glance in her direction, weighing my options. “Eyes away, McCallister,” she warns me.
“I’m just looking at the pool,” I say innocently. Which is true because she’s hiding on the other side—right by the opposite corner.
The water sparkles invitingly under the moonlight, and the thought of spending more time with her, even with these ridiculous rules, is too tempting to pass up.
“Fine,” I say, finally giving in. “I’ll get swim trunks. But if I comply, then we’re heading paddleboarding this weekend.”
“In Connecticut?” she asks, and I don’t know if I’m annoyed that she ignored my original text or thrilled that I’m about to hit her with yet another surprise.
“No, I was thinking Vermont, actually,” I say, as casually as I can manage. “Make it a fun weekend—you better ask for Monday off work.”
“No,” she screeches like a startled cat.
“Oh, but yes. Remember spontaneity?” I tease, drawing out the word.
“Deal,” she replies, her voice tinged with resignation that makes me grin. “Now hurry up, McCallister. The night is young, and the water’s perfect. ”
As I head back to my penthouse, I can’t help but smile. Tonight might not go exactly as planned, but it’s shaping up to be unforgettable.
I take the elevator up, the soft hum of the machinery the only sound as I ascend. The doors slide open, and I step into the foyer, the cool marble floors contrasting with the warm anticipation building inside me. I walk through the spacious living area, past sleek furniture and modern art pieces, heading straight for my bedroom.
Once inside, I quickly rummage through my dresser and find my swim trunks. Before changing, I take a moment to check on Zoe. I walk over to the sliding glass doors and step out onto the balcony. From there, I can see Zoe swimming gracefully in the pool below, moving through the water with the effortless elegance of a mermaid. The sight of her enjoying herself brings a warm feeling to my chest.
With a determined grin, I turn back inside and change into my swim trunks, eager to join her and make the most of this unexpected night.
And though, I’ll be following her rules—I’ll make sure that even when I don’t see, I get to touch.
“So how’s this going to work?” I ask as I reach the pool. I set two towels on a lounge chair and gather her discarded clothes. That’s when I realize Zoe’s either going commando or . . . “Are you cheating, Zoe Harper? ”
“Why would you say such a thing?” she asks, feigning indignation.
“Some undergarments seem to be missing from your pile,” I point out. When I turn to look at her, I spot a pretty black lace bra. So much for sneaking a peek.
I shake my head, laughing. “Of course you are. We agreed on skinny dipping.” I wag a finger at her. “You’re overdressed.”
“Oh, these old things?” She gestures innocently. “I thought it was only fair. After all, it’d be pretty hard for you to enjoy the pool with your eyes closed. I’m saving your life, really,” she says with a straight face. “I don’t hear a thank you for my kindness.”
The nerve of this woman. “You’re something else, Zoe Harper.”
“Oh, I’m something alright.” She grins, gliding toward the far end of the pool. “Are you coming in or what, McCallister?”
I step to the edge of the pool and dip my toes in. The water is cool and refreshing, a perfect contrast to the summer night air. The moonlight reflects off the surface, casting a shimmering glow across the pool. I take a deep breath, savoring the tranquility of the moment, and the thrill of Zoe’s playful challenge.
As I ease myself into the water, the coolness envelops me, sending a pleasant shiver up my spine. The water feels like silk against my skin, soothing and invigorating all at once. I swim a few strokes, enjoying the freedom and weightlessness, before turning to look at Zoe.
Her presence adds an electrifying tension to the night. Even in the playful banter, there’s an underlying current of something deeper, something that makes my pulse quicken and my senses heighten. Zoe’s eyes sparkle with mischief, her laughter blending with the gentle ripples of the water.
“Come on over here,” I call to her.
“Nope, you stay there and I’ll be here,” she teases, eyes twinkling. “Or maybe I’ll make you chase me. I was a great swimmer back in high school, you know.”
“Sweetheart, I’m a former Navy SEAL. I know swimming,” I say in a warning tone, knowing she’s trying to push a challenge she’ll lose.
She has a competitive streak, and though I like it a lot, I think it’s best if she leaves that part of her personality to rest tonight.
Zoe snickers. “You’re no fun.”
“Oh, I can be so much fun,” I reply, letting a flirtatious smile play on my lips as I slowly make my way toward her at the other end of the pool.
I glide through the water with ease, each stroke bringing me closer to her. Zoe watches me, her expression a mix of amusement and anticipation. As I approach, I can see the playful challenge in her eyes, and it only fuels my determination.
When I’m just a few feet away, I pause, letting the moment stretch out. “You sure you don’t want to come to me?” I tease, my voice low and inviting.
Zoe shakes her head, her grin widening. “I like making you work for it.”
I chuckle, the sound blending with the gentle splashes of the water. “Alright then, you asked for it.”
With a sudden burst of speed, I close the gap between us, my arms reaching out to capture her. Zoe squeals and tries to dart away, but I’m too fast. I wrap my arms around her waist, pulling her close.
“Gotcha,” I whisper, our faces inches apart.
Her breath hitches, and for a moment, the playful banter is replaced by a charged silence. The night air feels thick with anticipation, and I can see the conflict of excitement and challenge in her eyes.
“Maybe you are fun after all,” she murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper.
“Just wait and see,” I reply, leaning in to capture her lips in a kiss that’s both tender and intense.
The moment our lips meet, it’s like an electric current runs through me. Her lips are soft and warm, moving against mine with a perfect blend of urgency and sweetness. I deepen the kiss, my hand sliding up to cradle the back of her head, my fingers tangling in her wet hair. Every touch, every movement feels heightened, more intense. Her body pressed against mine, fitting perfectly, as if she was made to be here in my arms.
Which is insane when I’m not supposed to care about anyone on that level. Not when I plan to stay single forever. Then again, Zoe Harper has been changing my essence since the first day we met. I’m second-guessing some things and beginning to want others that I never imagined I would.
I can feel the rapid beat of her heart matching mine, the heat between us undeniable. The water around us seems to disappear, leaving only the sensation of her lips, the taste of her, and the intoxicating scent of her skin mingling with the night air. The kiss consumes me, making me dizzy with want and need. I pull her even closer, needing to feel every inch of her against me.
Zoe’s hands grip my shoulders, her nails lightly grazing my skin, sending shivers down my spine. The world fades away, leaving just the two of us, lost in this moment of pure, unadulterated passion. When we finally pull apart, we’re both breathless, our foreheads resting against each other.
“See?” I murmur, my voice rough with emotion. “I told you, it’s a win-win.”
She looks up at me, her eyes glazed with desire and something deeper. “You’re right,” she whispers, her lips brushing mine with every word. “This is definitely a win.”