Chapter 69
As the morning light poured in through the small window in the tent, Wendy yawned, reached for the hem of her shirt, the fabric soft against her fingers as she pulled it over her head. She could hear the everyone's voice outside as they prepared for breakfast and a day of hiking. Not wanting to keep them waiting, she quickly tossed her dirty shirt back in her bag and grabbed a clean tank top. But the moment she looked down, something caught her eye.
Faint, blooming red marks trailing down her collarbone, her ribs, her chest, and lower still.
Wendy froze.
Her pulse thrummed in her ears as she straightened back up, her breath catching in her throat. The morning light filtering through her tent cast a warm glow over her skin, illuminating every single mark Mason had left behind.
Heat flooded her cheeks as the memories of the night before came rushing backâhis hands on her waist, his mouth on hers, the way their bodies fit together beneath the water. And now, in the stark clarity of daylight, the marks were dark, unmistakable, scattered like little pieces of him left behind on her body.
Wendy's lips parted, a sharp inhale breaking the silence of her tent before a surge of frustration overtook her.
Mason.
That absolute menace.
Wendy swallowed hard, pressing her fingers against one particularly deep bruise just below her ribs, as if she could erase it. But she couldn't. He had claimed her in ways she hadn't even realized, and now, in the silence of morning, it was all over her skin. Wendy's stomach twisted, a mix of emotions clashing inside herâembarrassment, frustration, something dangerously close to longing.
That cocky bastard.
Jaw clenched, she grabbed a different shirt and yanked it over her head. Wendy didn't even bother checking her reflectionâshe already knew she probably looked like a storm brewing. Shoving her feet into her shoes, she barreled out of the tent, her fists clenched at her sides as she scanned the campsite.
He had to be nearby. He had to be.
The moment she spotted himâlazily leaning against a tree, sipping from a water bottle like he hadn't turned her into a living canvas overnightâher rage ignited.
"You," she seethed, stomping toward him. Mason barely had time to lower his bottle before she grabbed his arm and pulled him behind the tree.
"Care to explain this?" Wendy asked, lifting up her shirt to show him the hikies on her chest.
Mason's lips twitched as his gaze flickered over her skin. He exhaled, slow and measured, before looking up at her with that infuriatingly amused expression.
"I was feeling poetic," he said, utterly unapologetic.
Wendy gaped at him. "Poetic? Poetic? Youâ" She pointed accusingly at her hip, where another red and purple hikie lay just beneath the hem of her shorts. "How am I going to go swimming or wear tank tops or sunbathe?"
"You're so adorable when you're mad," Mason supplied smoothly, tilting his head.
Wendy let out a sound that was somewhere between a frustrated scream and a strangled groan.
"I hate you," she hissed, but even as she said it, her pulse betrayed her, racing under his steady gaze.
Mason grinned, lazy and smug. "I feel very passionate about you too, Wendy Darling," he murmured, stepping closer. "And I know you don't hate me."
"Oh, yeah?" Wendy scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Yeah." Mason nodded, his eyes locked on hers as he reached for her waist, his fingers curling just enough to keep her from pulling away. "You want to know how I know?"
Wendy hated the way her body reacted to his touch. Despite the anger she was trying to hold onto, she felt her muscles relax, her breath coming just a little shallower.
Mason turned her around effortlessly, guiding her back until she felt the rough bark of a tree pressing against her spine. Her eyes narrowed, defiant, but she could see the flicker of satisfaction in his gaze as he caged her inâone hand resting against the trunk beside her head, the other still firm on her waist.
With an infuriating smirk, Mason reached for the hem of his shirt, lifting it just enough to reveal the faint red scratches streaked across his toned abdomen. The sight made Wendy's breath hitch, but she masked it with another glare.
"You're also not pushing me away," Mason murmured, voice softer now, more dangerous as he leane din closer.
Wendy swallowed hard, her fingers twitching at her sides. She wanted to shove him. She wanted to pull him closer.
And Mason?
Mason was just waiting. Watching. Smiling like he had all the time in the world.
Wendy lifted her chin, her glare sharp enough to cut. "Last night will never happen again.," she stated firmly, though the heat in her cheeks betrayed her.
Mason's lips twitched, but he said nothing, his gaze steady as he studied her.
"I mean it, Mason," she pressed, pushing against his chest, but he didn't budge. "I don't like you. I don't want you. And I dislike you very much."
His smirk deepened, amused rather than deterred. "You dislike me?" he echoed, tilting his head like he found the word particularly funny.
"Yes," Wendy snapped, crossing her arms tightly over her chest. "Very much."
Mason exhaled a soft laugh, his fingers flexing against her waist before he finally let her go, stepping back just enough to give her space.
"Noted," he murmured, voice rich with amusement. "But you might want to tell that to the way you were moaning my name last night, baby girl."
Wendy let out a frustrated growl and shoved himâhard this timeâbut Mason only laughed as she spun on her heel and stormed away.
The crisp morning air did little to cool the heat simmering under her skin, and she was so lost in her frustration that she almost didn't notice the way Lily's head snapped up the moment she stepped into view.
"Wendy," Lily called, her sharp eyes narrowing as she took in her friend's disheveled appearance. Without hesitation, she grabbed Wendy's arm and pulled her off to the side, away from the rest of the group.
"What the hell happened?" Lily demanded, crossing her arms. "You disappeared last night, and now you come back looking likeâ" Her gaze flickered over Wendy's tangled hair and flushed cheeks before her eyes dropped lower. The moment she spotted the faint love bites peeking out from the collar of Wendy's shirt, her jaw dropped. "Oh. Oh."
Wendy immediately tugged her shirt up higher, scowling. "It's nothing," she muttered, but Lily wasn't buying it.
"Those marks on your neck say otherwise. Mason happened, didn't he?" Lily whispered.
Wendy clenched her jaw, refusing to meet Lily's knowing stare. "It was a mistake," she bit out. "And it's never happening again."
Lily's expression shifted in an instant. Gone was the concerned friend, and in her place was a gleeful troublemaker practically vibrating with excitement.
"Oh my God," she whispered, eyes wide with delight. "You and Mason. Finally."
Wendy groaned. "No. Not finally. Not anything. It was a mistake."
But Lily wasn't listening. She clutched Wendy's arms, practically bouncing on her feet. "Do you have any idea how long I've been waiting for this? You and my brother? This is perfect."
"Lily," Wendy warned, but it was no use.
Lily clasped her hands together, her grin stretching impossibly wide. "You guys would be so good together. You already bicker like an old married couple. And the tension? Ugh. I knew it was only a matter of time before one of you snapped."
Wendy scowled. "Lily, nothing is going to happen between your brother and me."
Lily waved her off. "You say that now, but trust me, you won't be able to resist him for long." She sighed dramatically. "Mason's the worst, I get it, but he's also stupidly charming when he wants to be. And if he left those marks on you..." She smirked. "That means he wants you, too."
Wendy's face burned. "It doesn't matter what he wants. I don't want him."
Lily raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure about that?"
Wendy hesitated for half a second too long, and Lily's smirk deepened.
"Thought so," she said smugly. "Face it, Wendy. You're totally into him."
Wendy groaned and turned away. "I hate you."
Lily just laughed, looping her arm through Wendy's as they walked back toward the camp. "Nah, you love me. Almost as much as you secretly love my brother."
Wendy huffed, but her silence only fueled Lily's amusement. This was so not over.
As Wendy and Lily walked back toward the group, Wendy's gaze drifted, almost instinctively, until she locked eyes with Mason. He stood near the fire, arms crossed over his bare chest. His sharp, knowing smirk sent a fresh wave of irritation through her.
She narrowed her eyes in a withering glare, silently daring him to wipe that smug expression off his face. But Mason didn't flinch. If anything, his smirk deepened, his dark eyes dragging over her with the same quiet intensity he had in the water last night. Wendy felt a flicker of heat crawl up her neck before she quickly turned away, refusing to let him get to her.
Just as she did, she noticed Lily stiffen beside her. Her best friend's usually lighthearted energy dimmed in an instant, her fingers tightening slightly where they linked around Wendy's arm.
Wendy frowned. "What's wrong?"
Lily didn't respond immediately. Her gaze was locked on Jake, who stood a few feet away, casually stirring a pot of coffee over the fire. His shoulders were tense, his movements stiff.
"Lily?" Wendy tried again, her voice softer.
Lily exhaled sharply, finally tearing her eyes away from Jake. "He's mad at me," she muttered, her expression clouding with frustration.
Wendy's frown deepened. "For what? Last night?"
Lily hesitated, then sighed. "Yeah.....and also because I won't sleep with him yet."
Wendy's stomach twisted. "Seriously?"
Lily shrugged, but the tension in her shoulders didn't ease. "Yeah. He says it's fine, but I can tell he's annoyed about it. He's been acting weird ever since we got here."
Wendy clenched her jaw, glancing back at Jake, who still hadn't looked their way. Something about the whole situation made her uneasy.
"Lily..." Wendy started carefully, lowering her voice. "If he's making you feel bad about it, that's not okay."
"I know," Lily said quickly, but the crease in her forehead deepened. "He hasn't said anything, but I can just feel it, you know?"
Wendy did know. And she didn't like it one bit.
As Lily exhaled heavily, lost in thought, Alexa suddenly appeared beside them.
"What's with the serious faces?" She asked, raising a brow. "Did I miss something?"
Wendy sighed and nodded toward Jake. "Lily was just telling me that he's upset with her for not sleeping with him yet."
Alexa's brows furrowed. "Are you kidding me?" She turned to Lily, her sharp gaze scanning her best friend's face. "Please tell me you're not actually letting this bother you."
Lily hesitated, shifting uncomfortably under Alexa's scrutiny. "It's not that simple," she muttered. "He hasn't said anything, but he's been acting weird about it."
Alexa scoffed. "Yeah, well, too bad for him. If he's being weird because you won't sleep with him, then he's the problem, not you."
Lily bit her lip. "I justâI don't want to start a fight over it."
"So, what? You're going to tiptoe around his mood swings forever?" Alexa challenged, placing a hand on her hip. "Lily, you get to decide when you're ready, not him. And if he's cranky about it, let him be cranky. That's his problem, not yours."
Lily sighed again, rubbing her temples. "I know you're right, but it still sucks. I just wish he wouldn't act this way."
Alexa softened slightly, placing a reassuring hand on Lily's arm. "I get it. But don't you dare let him guilt-trip you into doing something you don't want to do."
Wendy nodded firmly in agreement. "She's right, Lil. If he's worth your time, he'll get over it."
Lily swallowed, looking between her two best friends before finally nodding. "Yeah... yeah, you guys are right."
"If he doesn't behave then maybe it's time to rethink things," Alexa added.
"No," Lily frowned, her heart squeezing at the thought of breaking up with Jake.
Alexa stepped forward and looped her arms through Lily's.
"Don't look so sad, buttercup," she said. "Spend some extra time with him today. Go make out in the woods or something. That might make him feel better."
Lily laughed and shook her head.
"Also, maybe wear a different outfit," Alexa said.
"What? What's wrong with my outfit?"
Alexa tilted her head, giving Lily a once-over with a critical but playful glint in her eyes. "Nothing," she said, dragging out the word. "But if you wanna keep Jake's attention, maybe something a little sexier wouldn't hurt."
Lily frowned, glancing down at herself. She was wearing denim shorts and a simple fitted tank topânothing special, but comfortable. She suddenly became hyper-aware of the way it sat on her frame, the way the fabric clung to her body in a way that now felt... unremarkable.
Her gaze flickered toward Alexa's outfitâher tiny black crop top accentuating her toned stomach, paired with snug, low-rise shorts that hugged her curves effortlessly. She looked effortless, confident, the kind of girl that turned heads without even trying.
Lily's stomach twisted.
"I don't know..." she murmured, tugging at the hem of her shirt as insecurity crept in. "I didn't bring anything... sexier."
Alexa rolled her eyes, squeezing Lily's arm. "Lily, you're gorgeous. You could wear a trash bag and still look hot." She grinned. "But if you want to step it up, you can borrow something from me."
Lily hesitated. She wasn't sure if dressing differently would actually change how Jake was actingâor if this was just another thing she felt like she had to do to keep him happy.
But as she caught Alexa's expectant gaze, she forced a small smile and nodded. "Okay... maybe I'll take a look."
"Atta girl," Alexa said, giving her a little shake. "Let's make him suffer a little."
Lily laughed, but as they walked back toward the tents, she couldn't shake the weight in her chest, the nagging feeling that no matter what she wore, it wouldn't be enough.
___________________
After breakfast, Lily stood in front of her tent, holding the crop top Alexa had given her. It was smaller than anything she usually woreâblack, ribbed, with thin straps that barely covered more than a bra. She hesitated for a moment before exhaling sharply and pulling off her tank top.
Sliding the crop top on, she adjusted the hem, feeling the cool morning air brush against her exposed stomach. It felt... different. A little bold, a little daring. She ran her hands down her sides and glanced at herself in the small mirror hanging in her tent. She looked good.
Satisfied, Lily stepped out of her tent, still adjusting the hem of her topâonly to collide with a solid chest.
She stumbled back, startled, her hands instinctively going to steady herself. When she looked up, Gabriel was standing there, his dark eyes narrowing ever so slightly as they dragged over her.
His gaze lingeredâjust a fraction too longâbefore he finally spoke. "You should wear long sleeves," he said, his voice even.
Lily scoffed, rolling her eyes. "I'm not Alexa. You can't tell me what to wear." she muttered, brushing past him.
"Keeps the bugs away," Gabriel said as she pasted him but didn't try to stop her.
Lily tugged at the hem of her shirt one last time. She could feel Gabriel's eyes on her as she strode toward Jake, her steps a little sharper than necessary.
When she spotted Jake leaning against a tree, talking with Alexa, she almost broke into a run. His eyes landed on her immediately, and his conversation faltered mid-sentence. His gaze dragged over her, slow and heated, and a smirk curled at his lips.
"Damn," he said, pushing off the tree and walking toward her. Alexa stepped aside as he walked up to Lily, his eyes raking up and down her figure. His hands slid over her bare waist as he pulled her closer. "Good morning, baby."
Warmth flooded Lily's chest as he leaned down and kissed her. Her heart began to beat faster despite the small voice in the back of her mind that questioned why his attention felt so conditional.
"Good morning," She smiled, feigning casualness.
"You look hot," Jake whispered against her lips.
"You like it?" Lily giggled.
Jake hummed, his fingers teasing along the hem of her shorts. "Love it," he murmured, pressing a quick kiss to her jaw. "You should dress like this more often."
Lily's stomach fluttered at his words, at the way he looked at her like she was the only thing in the world worth noticing. It felt goodâbeing wanted like this. It was all new for her and it was exhilarating. She felt her tummy tighten as she thought about finding some alone time with him later on.
"You're hiking in this, right?" Jake laughed.
"Yes," Lily nodded, looping her arms around his neck. "It's sooo hot today."
"Remembered to wear your bathing suit?" Jake asked, brushing back her hair as she hung from his neck.
"Yes," Lily nodded.
"Need help putting on sunscreen?" Jake teased.
"Yes," Lily bit down on her bottom lip and blushed. "I think I missed a few important parts."
"Oh?" Jake raised his brow and chuckled. "We can't have that. I have to keep you protected."
"My hero," Lily gigled.
"Go grab the sunscreen," Jake said, kissing her forehead. "And meet me by the car."
Nodding, Lily turned on her heels and headed back to theri tent. She grabbed the sunscreen from her bag as a innocent smile pulled across her lips. Her heart thudded against her ribs as she made her way back to Jake's car, where he leaned casually against the hood, arms crossed over his chest, watching her approach with that signature gentle smile. The sun glowed against his tanned skin, making him look effortlessly cool, and for a second, Lily felt brave enough to take a small step forward in their relationship.
"My girl," Jake murmured as she held up the bottle. He uncrossed his arms and took it from her, twisting off the cap. "Turn around."
Lily did as he said, her stomach twisting in delicious anticipation. The first touch of his hands, cool and firm against her warm skin, sent a shiver through her. He started at her shoulders, massaging the lotion in slow, deliberate circles before trailing down her back, his thumbs pressing lightly into her muscles.
"Mm," she hummed, closing her eyes.
Jake chuckled. "Feels nice?"
His hands glided lower, rubbing the sunscreen over her lower back, just above the waistband of her shorts. Lily swallowed hard, her breath catching. She felt his touch linger, teasing, like he knew exactly what he was doing to her.
"Front too," she said, turning to face him, emboldened by the heat between them.
Jake's eyes darkened slightly as he smirked. "Of course."
He squeezed a bit more lotion into his hands before running them over her arms, down to her wrists, his fingers tracing little circles along the inside of them before moving to her collarbones. His thumbs brushed over the tops of her shoulders, then lower, his touch grazing along the edges of her crop top. Lily sucked in a breath, her skin burning in a way that had nothing to do with the sun.
"Done?" she whispered, though she wasn't sure she wanted him to be.
Jake's hands lingered a second longer. Their eyes met as his fingers slowly slid under her shirt.
Before she could overthink it, Lily reached for him, looping her arms around his neck, pressing up on her toes. Jake caught her waist, pulling her flush against him, and then his mouth was on hers.
His lips moved over hers with slow, purposeful hunger, his grip tightening around her waist as he deepened it, his other hand sliding fully under her shirt and cupping her chest. Lily melted into him, her fingers tangling in his hair as his hands explored her skin beneath her top.
She could barely think, barely breatheâall she knew was that it felt good to be touched like that. No one had ever touched her in the places Jake's hands were traveling. Lily could feel her cheeks blush as he squeezed her nipples, making her squeal.
His hands tightned around her waist and he laughed, kissing her harder and leaning back against the car. Jake pulled back just enough to press a kiss against her jaw, then another down her neck.
"I missed you so much last night," he murmured, his voice husky.
Lily blushed harder, breathless. "Tonight?"
Jake smiled, "Yeah?"
"We can...." Lily's eyes flickered to his mouth before moving back up to hsi eyes. "We can explore a little bit more?"
Jake's smile spread as he tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "Yeah? You want that?"
Lily's stomach tightened, a thrill rushing through her. She bit down on her bottom lip, smiling. "Yes."
"As you wish, princess," Jake teased, pulling out his hand and adjusting her shirt.
____________
As the group began to set off for the hike, Jake kept Lily close, his arm draped over her shoulders, his touch lingering. He was affectionate, playful, kissing her temple, squeezing her waist, pulling her in as they walked.
Lily soaked it all in, leaning into the attention, ignoring the whisper in her mind that wondered why she had to change something about herself to get it. But it was all short lived after two hours into the hike.
Lily regretted everything.
The first hour had been tolerableâhot, yes, but manageable. Jake had stayed by her side, laughing, teasing, keeping her distracted from the incline and the sweat gathering at the back of her neck. But two hours in, she was miserable.
The heat was unbearable, her clothes sticking to her skin, her hair clinging to her damp neck. Every step felt like a battle, the uneven terrain punishing her legs, her calves burning with every upward push. The worst part? The bugs.
They were relentless, biting at her exposed skin, leaving behind angry red welts that itched like hell. She swatted at them furiously, but they just kept coming.
Jake had moved ahead, his arm no longer around her. He and Alexa lead the group, walking side by side, talking and laughing like they had all the energy in the world.
Lily wanted to go back. She wanted to be anywhere but here. Her stomach twisted as she watched Jake throw his head back, laughing at something Alexa said. Meanwhile, she was sweaty, itchy, and struggling to breathe. She hated this. She hated hiking. And she hated the quiet realization creeping into her mindâthat she had changed something about herself just to fit into his world.
Lily paused, placing her hands on her knees, trying to catch her breath. The group continued moving ahead, their voices fading as she fell further behind. She squeezed her eyes shut, frustration bubbling inside her.
This wasn't her.
And no amount of pretending was going to make it so.
"Here."
Lily opened her eyes and found Gabriel holding a water bottle toward her. She blinked up at him, still breathless, her skin sticky with sweat. His dark eyes were steady as he extended the bottle closer.
"You look like you're about to pass out," Gabriel said. "Drink."
Lily scowled, straightening. "I'm fine."
"Yeah, you look really fine," he drawled, unimpressed. "Take the damn water, angel."
She snatched the bottle from his hand, taking a long sip before shoving it back at him. "Happy?"
Gabriel sighed but didn't bother answering. Instead, he pulled out a can of bug spray and held it up. "You're getting eaten alive. Hold still."
Lily swatted the can away before he could spray it. "I said I'm fine! I don't need your help!"
His jaw ticked, eyes narrowing slightly. "You're one mosquito bite away from a complete meltdown."
Lily glared at him. "Leave me alone, Gabriel."
She turned on her heel and stomped back up the trail, pushing forward despite the burning in her legs, the suffocating heat, the itch on her skin. She didn't care. She wasn't going to stand there and let Gabriel of all people see her struggling.
Behind her, she heard him exhale sharply, followed by a muttered, "Unbelievable."
Lily bit down all the irritation inside of her and continued the hike. Pretty soon, the roar of the waterfall grew louder as the group pushed through the last stretch of the trail, the trees finally breaking to reveal a stunning cascade of water crashing into a crystal-clear pool below. The sight alone was enough to make Lily's legs nearly give out.
"Oh, thank God," she breathed, dragging herself to the nearest rock and plopping down with a dramatic sigh. The cool mist from the waterfall kissed her overheated skin, and for the first time in hours, she felt like she could actually breathe.
Around her, the others set down their bags and began peeling off layers, stretching out their limbs, looking far too refreshed for people who just endured that death march of a hike.
Lily closed her eyes, letting the distant laughter and rustling leaves fade into the background. This was nice. This was peaceful. This wasâ
"Pfft." Alexa plopped down next to her, shaking her head with a smirk. "I swear, you are the softest city girl I've ever met."
Lily cracked one eye open and raise dher brow. "Excuse me?"
Alexa laughed as she nudged her with her elbow. "Oh, come on. You barely made it up here. Huffing and puffing the whole way, whining about bugs. You're like a princess out of her castle."
"I am not whining," Lily glared. "I justâ" She gestured vaguely at her sweat-drenched shirt, her bug-bitten legs, the ache in her entire body. "I wasn't built for this."
Alexa laughed. "Yeah, no kidding." She leaned back on her palms, tilting her head toward where Jake stood with a few others near the water's edge. "You were right, Jake. She's needs a donkey to carry her up."
Lily's face burned. "That's notâ"
Jake turned at the mention of his name, a slow smirk spreading across his face as he walked over. "Told you," he said, ruffling Lily's damp hair playfully. "My poor little city girl is struggling."
Lily swatted his hand away with a scowl. "I am not struggling," she insisted, even as she wiped at the sweat beading along her forehead.
Alexa snickered. "You were practically crawling up the last incline."
Jake chuckled, crouching in front of her. "I thought I was gonna have to throw you over my shoulder and carry you up myself."
Lily's glare sharpened. "I'm surprised you noticed anything at all."
Jake raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Lily shrugged, forcing nonchalance even as her heart pounded. "You seemed very busy up ahead."
Jake smirked, leaning in just a little closer to whisper. "Jealous?"
Lily scoffed, tilting her chin up defiantly. "Please. I was too busy not dying to care what you were doing."
Alexa snorted. "Uh-huh, sure. You were definitely not glaring daggers at us the whole time. It's not our fault we're more suited for the outdoors, baby cake."
Lily turned her glare on Alexa, but before she could fire back, Jake reached out and flicked the brim of her baseball cap.
"Relax, princess," he teased. "I'm here now, aren't I?"
Lily rolled her eyes. "Whatever," she muttered, looking away. "Just leave me to die in peace."
Jake chuckled, standing up and stretching. "No can do. We still have to hike back later. Better rest up."
Lily groaned, throwing her head back against the rock. "I hate hiking."
Alexa patted her knee, grinning. "Don't worry. We'll find you that donkey next time."
Lily let out a dramatic groan before slumping back against the cool rock, closing her eyes as she let the chill seep into her overheated skin. The distant sound of rushing water and laughter filled the air, but she barely paid attention, too focused on catching her breath and letting the ache in her legs subside.
After a while, as her body cooled and she was no longer covered in sweat, the temptation of the crystal-clear water became too much. With a sigh, Lily pushed herself up and peeled off her damp shirt, leaving just her yellow bikini before making her way toward the water's edge.
Wendy was already waist-deep, splashing at Alexa, who was effortlessly dressed in a tiny black bikini.
"You coming in?" Mason's eyes flicking to Lily as he slicked back his wet hair.
Lily nodded and waded in, sighing in relief as the cool water wrapped around her overheated body. She took her time, letting the water rise inch by inch over her skin, soothing every ache from the grueling hike. The relief was instant, her muscles unwinding as the refreshing chill seeped into her bones. Closing her eyes, she dipped under the surface, letting the world above fade into a muffled blur.
For a moment, she floated weightless, suspended in the peaceful quiet beneath the water. Her hair fanned around her, the sunlit ripples casting golden patterns across her skin. It was the first time all day she felt truly at ease.
When she resurfaced, she exhaled slowly, keeping her eyes closed for a few more seconds, savoring the tranquility. But as she blinked them open, the moment shattered.
Gabriel was watching her.
He sat on a nearby rock, his dark eyes locked onto her with quiet intensity. His forearms rested on his knees, hands loosely clasped as if he'd been sitting there for a while. He looked almost too still, too composed, yet there was something unreadable in his gaze that sent a strange shiver down her spine.
Lily swallowed, her fingers twitching where they skimmed the surface of the water. She wasn't sure what to sayâwasn't even sure why the sight of him looking at her like that made her heart stutter.
Gabriel didn't look away. Didn't smirk or tease her like she expected him to. He just sat there, watching.
And for some reason, that was worse.
Lily forced herself to look away, turning her attention back to Wendy and Mason, who were chatting a few feet away. She waded deeper into the water, willing herself to ignore the way Gabriel's gaze lingered on her. But every time she let her guard slip, her eyes betrayed her, flicking back to where he sat on the rock.
And every time, he was still watching.
Her stomach twisted. It was unnervingâhow quiet he was, how he didn't try to draw attention to himself like Jake or Alexa. There was something about Gabriel's silence that unsettled her, made her feel too exposed, too seen.
Lily splashed water at Wendy, laughing a little too loudly at something Mason said, pretending she didn't notice the weight of Gabriel's stare. But even as she swam, as she let herself drift with the current, she couldn't shake it.
Eventually, Jake's voice cut through the easy lull of conversation.
"I'm gonna head to the top," he said, running a hand through his wet hair. "See the view from up there."
Lily turned, blinking up at him. "You're climbing that?" she asked, glancing toward the jagged path leading to the top of the waterfall.
Jake grinned. "Obviously. You coming?"
Lily scoffed. "Not a chance."
"I'll go!" Alexa piped up eagerly, already moving toward him. She wrung out her long hair and tossed it over her shoulder. "Someone has to be the fun one."
Lily rolled her eyes but didn't argue, watching as Jake offered Alexa his hand to help her out of the water. They laughed as they set off toward the steep incline, disappearing into the trees.
Lily let out a slow breath, sinking a little deeper into the water.
"I think there's a cave behind the waterfall," Mason said. "You wanna go see that, Lil?"
Lily shook her head. "I like the water. Please stop trying to get me to hike."
Wendy laughed as she swam to the edge of the rocks and pulled herself up onto the ledge by the falling water.
"You coming, Mason?" She asked, her hands on her hips.
"Yes, dear," Mason said, following after her. "Gabriel? You staying?"
"Yeah," Gabriel said.
"Keep an eye on Lily," Mason said. "Make sure she doesn't drown."
"No, I'm fi-" Lily didn't get a chance to protest as Wendy and Mason disappeared behind the waterfall, their figures hidden in the darkness.
A nervous energy coiled in Lily's stomach, twisting tighter with each passing second. The others were gone. It was just her and Gabriel now, the silence stretching between them, thick and charged. She wasn't sure if it was the solitude or the way he was watching her that made her uneasyâbut either way, she needed space.
Without a word, she turned and pushed off the rocks, gliding farther into the water, away from his gaze, away from the way he made the air feel too heavy in her lungs. The water cooled her skin, but it did nothing to settle the warmth creeping up her neck.
She kept her strokes steady, her movements effortless, but she felt his presence even from a distance. Felt the weight of his stare, tracking her every move.
Don't look.
But she did.
As Lily's gaze traveled back toward him, Gabriel shifted. With an easy, unhurried motion, he reached for the back of his shirt and pulled it over his head in one fluid sweep.
Lily's breath caught and she dipped a little lower into the water. Only her evergreen eyes shimmered above the surface.
Gabriel was lean, but undeniably strongâhis torso toned in a way that came from effortless strength rather than vanity. Broad shoulders, sculpted arms, the faint definition of his abs catching the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. Droplets of water from the splashes earlier swim still clung to his skin, trailing slowly down his chest before disappearing beneath the waistband of his swim trunks.
Lily quickly looked away, suddenly very aware of how warm her face felt.
Gabriel, of course, noticed.
"Something wrong?" His voice was casual, but there was an unmistakable edge of amusement.
"No," she said, lifting her chin. "Just wondering how much longer you're planning to sit there brooding."
Gabriel smirked, stretching his arms back lazily, completely at ease with himself. "Depends," he said, his voice slow, teasing. "How much longer are you gonna pretend you're not staring?"
Lily's jaw tightened. Without thinking, she scooped up a handful of water and flung it at him.
Gabriel barely flinched, droplets sliding down his chest. His smirk deepened.
"Real mature," he mused.
Lily huffed, turning awayâbut she could still feel his gaze on her, and somehow, that was worse.
She cast a glance over her shoulder as a soft splash cut through the quiet. Her body tensed, already knowing what Gabriel was up to.
He moved through the water with an easy grace, slow and deliberate, like he had all the time in the world. Lily kept her gaze fixed on the rippling surface, willing herself to ignore him, but she could feel him getting closer, the water shifting with his movements.
"You always this dramatic?" His voice was smooth, laced with amusement.
Lily moved herself closer to the rocks. "Go away."
Gabriel didn't. Instead, he swam closer, the space between them shrinking until she could feel the faint ripple of his presence against her skin.
"Can't," he said, his voice lower now. "Gotta make sure you don't drown, remember?"
Lily's eyes snapped to his, annoyance sparking in her chest, but whatever retort she had died the moment she saw him. He was closeâtoo close. Dark hair slicked back, water droplets tracing down his sharp jawline, his shoulders gleaming under the sunlight.
She swallowed. "I'm not drowning."
Gabriel's mouth curled, something unreadable flickering in his gaze. "Not yet."
Her breath hitched as he dipped under the water without another word, disappearing beneath the surface.
Lily twisted, searching, but before she could react, he emerged behind her, close enough that she felt the warmth of his breath against her shoulder. A startled gasp left her lips as she spun around, her heart slamming against her ribs.
He was smirking now, his dark eyes glinting with something almost teasing, almost dangerous.
"Relax," he murmured, voice low and lazy. "I'm just swimming."
Lily's pulse thrummed in her throat.
Right. Just swimming.
"Can you go swim over there or something?" Lily pointed to the middle of the small pool of water. "This is my area."
Gabriel's smirk deepened, his gaze flicking between her outstretched arm and her face. "Your area?" he echoed, amusement dripping from his voice.
"Yes," Lily said firmly, chin lifting. "Go find your own."
He hummed, tilting his head like he was considering it, but instead of moving away, he took a slow stroke forward, cutting through the water with effortless ease.
"What are you doing?" he mused. "Trying to play mermaid?"
Lily narrowed her eyes. "I'm swimming."
Gabriel's smirk didn't waver. "Looks more like you were out here flipping your hair and luring men to their death with your singing."
"You're soâ", Lily rolled her eyes. "Sirens sing death songs. Not mermaids."
Gabriel chuckled, the sound low and easy. "Same thing," he said, his voice dripping with that lazy confidence that made her want to splash him in the face.
"They are absolutely not the same thing," Lily scoffed paddling backward until she felt the smooth rocks against her back.
Gabriel arched a brow, following her slowly in the water, his movements fluid and unhurried. "You're an expert now?"
Lily matched his pace, swimming just as lazily in the opposite direction now, the water lapping up to their mouths as they orbited each other like rival currents.
"Obviously," she said, flicking a small wave in his direction. "Mermaids areâ"
"Pretty little things who comb their hair and cry over lost sailors?" Gabriel cut in, eyes glinting.
Lily gasped, affronted. "Excuse me? No, they are fierce, powerful creatures. Sirens, on the other handâ"
"Are sexy, cunning, and downright deadly," Gabriel interrupted again, smirking. "Yeah, I think I prefer them."
Lily scoffed, tilting her chin up as she treaded water. "Of course you do," she said, voice dripping with mock realization. "They're shallowâjust like you."
Gabriel's smirk deepened, his dark eyes glinting with something unreadable.
"Shallow?" he echoed, taking a slow stroke toward her, the water rippling around him. "That's funny, coming from the girl who probably thinks she's the red head mermaid."
"Her name's Ariel," Lily said, her eyes closed and her body floating.
Gabriel watched her for a few long seconds before breaking the silence.
"You know," he mused, "if I were a sailor, I'd probably pick the mermaid."
Lily stopped mid-stroke, blinking at him. "What?"
He smirked, shrugging one shoulder as he floated closer. "Sirens are trouble. They'd lure me in, drag me under, and leave nothing but bones." He paused, his gaze flickering over her before he added, "A mermaid, though... she might try to save me."
Lily's breath caught, her heart stuttering against her ribs. She hated the way he said it, so casual yet deliberate, like he wasn't just talking about mythical creatures anymore.
She swallowed, rolling her eyes to cover the strange flutter in her chest. "That's assuming the mermaid thinks you're worth saving."
Gabriel smiled, dark and knowing. "Guess that depends on the mermaid."
They drifted through the water, weightless, their movements slow and effortless. The water lapped at their shoulders, cool against the lingering heat of the afternoon. Lily swam ahead, her strokes smooth, but Gabriel kept up easily, cutting through the water with practiced ease.
He watched her for a moment, then smirked. "How are your bug bites?"
Lily's brows pulled together as she glanced over her shoulder. "What?"
"You know," he said, swimming a little closer. "The ones you were bound to get after wearing that little top that barely covers you."
Lily's eyes narrowed. "They're fine."
Gabriel arched a brow, unconvinced. "Was it worth it?"
Lily's lips twitched. "Oh, absolutely. I'd rather deal with a few bug bites than listen to you act like my dad."
She raised her hand and flicked water at him. Gabriel chuckled, swiping a hand over his face to shake off the droplets.
"Why that outfit today of all days?" He mused, his voice dipping lower, "you had to know what you were doing, wearing something like that."
"Yeah, I did," Lily rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I wanted to annoy you. That's my life's mission."
"Oh, angel," Gabriel murmured, voice full of mischief, as he swam up to face her. "I hate to break it to you, but that's not the effect it had."
"Then what effect did it have?" Lily asked with irritation. The words slipped out of her mouth before she could think them through and as soon as she said them, she realized how they sounded.
Gabriel didn't answer right away. Instead, he closed the distance between them with a few powerful strokes, moving through the water like he belonged to it. When he was close enough that she could see the droplets clinging to his dark lashes, he smirked.
"You really wanna know?" His voice was lazy, teasing, but there was something else beneath itâsomething that made her stomach tighten.
Lily hesitated. She should probably drop it, but something about the way he was looking at her, like he knew exactly what she was thinking, made her want to push. "I asked, didn't I?"
Instead of answering, Gabriel lifted a hand and flicked water at her face, grinning when she sputtered.
Lily gasped, wiping the water from her eyes. "Gabriel!"
Gabriel chuckled, the sound low and pleased, but before he could say anything else, a sharp scream echoed through the trees.
Lily's breath caught. Alexa.
Gabriel's expression shifted in an instant, amusement draining as he turned toward the sound, body going rigid.
"Alexa!" Lily called.
Th air was silent and still. They could near nothing but the waterfall.
"Alex?" Gabriel called out to his sister.
Panic began to set in as they were met with silence. Lily turned and swam toward the riverbank. Her heart pounded, panic rising fast.
Gabriel was right behind her, pushing through the water with quick, powerful strokes. The second they reached the shore, they scrambled for their clothes. Lily yanked on her shorts and her shoes, not bothering to fully dry off, while Gabriel grabbed his shirt but didn't put it on, too focused on the direction of the scream.
"Let's go," he said, voice sharp, and Lily nodded, already taking off toward the waterfall's rocky incline.
They moved fast, feet slipping slightly on the damp stone as they climbed. The rush of the waterfall roared in their ears. Gabriel reached for Lily's hand, steadying her before pulling ahead. His muscles tensed with every movement, his focus razor-sharp.
"Alexa?" He calle dout again, his voice deep and loud.
Lily's breath came fast as she climbed, her fingers gripping the slick rocks for balance. Water sprayed against her skin, cool mist clinging to the humid air. Gabriel was just ahead, moving with a quick, controlled urgency, his dark hair damp and wild from the river.
"Alexa!" Lily shouted, her voice barely carrying over the roar of the falls.
They reached the top, their feet hitting the flat, damp surface where the river smoothed out before tumbling over the edge. Gabriel scanned the area, his chest rising and falling with exertion.
No Alexa. No Jake.
Lily's stomach twisted. "Where are they?" she murmured, turning in circles, searching for any sign of the pair.
Gabriel ran a hand through his wet hair, his jaw tight.
"Alexa!" Lily cupped her hands around her mouth, her heart hammering. "Jake!"
A rustling noise came from behind the waterfall.
Gabriel's head snapped toward it, his stance shifting slightly, body coiled like he was ready for anything.
A moment later, Mason and Wendy stepped out from the hidden space behind the cascade, blinking against the sunlight.
Mason frowned, spotting Lily and Gabriel at the top of the waterfall. "What's going on? Why are you screaming?"
Gabriel's gaze darkened. "Alexa screamed. We can't find her or Jake."
Wendy's brows furrowed as she glanced around, concern creeping into her expression. "They were up here earlier. I saw them."
Lily swallowed hard, her pulse still racing. "Then where the hell are they now?"
"You two look up there," Mason instructed. "Wendy and I will check the other trail around the back."
Gabriel nodded sharply before turning to Lily. "Come on."
Without waiting, he took off down the narrow dirt path leading away from the waterfall, his strides quick and purposeful.
Lily hurried to keep up, dodging low-hanging branches as they pushed farther into the dense forest. The trail was uneven, roots and rocks jutting out of the packed earth, forcing her to watch her footing. Sunlight filtered through the canopy in broken patches, casting shifting shadows over the ground.
"Alexa!" Lily called again, her voice cutting through the distant sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves.
Nothing.
Gabriel didn't stop moving. His jaw was tight, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. "They wouldn't have gone this far," he muttered, but his pace didn't slow.
Lily's stomach twisted. "Then why aren't they answering?"
Silence stretched between them, thick and uneasy.
The farther they went, the more the familiar sounds of the waterfall faded into the background, replaced by the eerie quiet of the woods. The trail narrowed, winding between thick trees, and Lily felt a shiver crawl up her spine.
Gabriel came to an abrupt halt, throwing an arm out to stop her. Lily nearly ran into him, her breath catching as he glanced around, eyes sharp and alert.
"Do you hear that?" he asked, voice low.
Lily strained her ears. At first, there was only the sound of wind rustling through the leaves, the distant chirp of insects. And thenâ
A faint noise. Muffled. Indistinct.
It was coming from ahead.
Gabriel exchanged a quick glance with Lily before moving forward, slower now, more cautious. She followed, her heart hammering against her ribs.
The trail curved ahead, disappearing behind a thicket of dense foliage. As they rounded the bend, Gabriel inhaled sharply.
A small, furry shape stumbled into the clearing ahead.
Lily froze. A bear cub.
It was young, its round ears twitching as it sniffed at the ground, oblivious to their presence. Its dark eyes flickered with curiosity as it batted lazily at a fallen branch, the picture of innocence.
But Lily's blood ran cold. If there was a cub...
Gabriel slowly lifted a hand, fingers barely brushing against her wrist. "Don't move," he murmured, voice so low she barely heard him. "The mother's close."
Lily's breath hitched. The trees around them suddenly felt too small, the shadows too deep. Her mind raced through every warning she had ever heard about bearsâdon't run, don't make eye contact, don't scream. But her pulse was pounding, her body thrumming with the instinct to do exactly that.
The cub let out a soft, high-pitched huff and took an unsteady step forward, nose twitching.
Gabriel tensed. "Lily," he said, barely moving his lips, "we need to back away. Slowly."
Lily nodded, careful not to make any sudden movements.
But before they could take a single step back, a low, rumbling growl came from the trees.
The breath whooshed out of Lily's lungs.
The mother bear.
Gabriel's fingers curled around Lily's wrist as they inched backward, moving with slow, deliberate steps. Every muscle in his body was taut, his focus locked on the dense shadows where the mother bear lurked.
Lily swallowed hard, her heart hammering against her ribs. The cub let out a soft, curious huff, taking a wobbly step toward them.
A deep, guttural growl rumbled through the trees.
Gabriel's grip tightened. "Steady," he murmured.
They took another step back. Then another. The incline behind them was steep, the dirt loose beneath their feet.
Lily's heel caught on an exposed root.
Her stomach lurched as the ground slipped out from under her, and before she could grab hold of anything, she was falling.
A sharp gasp tore from her throat as she tumbled backward, the world blurring in a chaotic rush of trees and sky. Dirt and leaves scraped against her arms, her body twisting uncontrollably.
Thenâsudden heat, a strong grip.
Gabriel.
He had lunged for her, his arm locking around her waist, but the momentum was too strong. Instead of stopping her fall, he was pulled down with her.
They crashed down the slope, tumbling over rocks and tangled roots, limbs colliding in a mess of weightless freefall. The forest spun wildly around them untilâ
Thud.
They hit the bottom in a tangled heap, landing hard on the damp earth. A sharp ache shot through Lily's body, her lungs burning as she gasped for air.
Silence.
The world had stopped spinning, but they were no longer anywhere near the marked trail. Trees loomed overhead, unfamiliar and dense. The roar of the waterfall was now non existent.
Lily groaned, blinking up at the sky. "Ow."
They hit the bottom in a tangled heap, landing hard on the damp earth. A sharp ache shot through Lily's body, her lungs burning as she gasped for air. Silence. The world had stopped spinning, but they were no longer anywhere near the marked trail. Trees loomed overhead, unfamiliar and dense. The roar of the waterfall was now nonexistent.
Lily groaned, blinking up at the sky. "Ow."
A breath sounded beside her, followed by Gabriel moving quickly.
"Lily?" His voice was rough, strained with something she couldn't quite place. His hands were already on her, skimming over her arms, pressing lightly against her ribs, checking for any injuries.
She winced when his fingers brushed a particularly nasty scrape along her elbow. He cursed under his breath, his jaw tight, eyes flicking over her like he was making sure nothing was broken.
"Shit," he muttered. "You're all scratched up."
Lily let out a breathy laugh, though it came out more like a wheeze. "Yeah, well... falling down a hill will do that to a person."
Gabriel didn't laugh. His gaze shifted rapidly over herâevery bruise, every cut. But it was his next glance that made her heart skip a beat. His neck.
There was a long gash across the side of his neck, blood staining his skin. Another smaller cut marred his forehead, and his jaw was scraped too, like he'd dragged against the rocks as they fell.
"Gabriel," Lily said softly, her voice tight. She tried to sit up, reaching for him, but a wave of dizziness made her sway. Gabriel's hand was immediately there, steadying her, and his eyes flicked to the bruises forming on her wrist.
"Careful," he murmured, and his hand lingered on her waist, a steady pressure keeping her from toppling over.
"You're hurt," she said, her voice shaking slightly as she looked at the cuts on his face.
Gabriel's expression darkened as he glanced down at his neck, then at his forehead. A tight frown tugged at his lips.
"It's nothing," he muttered.
Lily swallowed, her own pain momentarily forgotten as she touched his neck gingerly. "This looks bad."
Gabriel stiffened under her touch but didn't pull away.
"I'll live." His voice was steady, but she could see the tension in his jaw, the way his hands were clenched at his sides.
She wanted to argue, wanted to tell him to stop downplaying it, but the look in his eyes silenced her. The soft, quiet concern that had replaced his usual teasing had her heart tightening.
"Can you sit up?" he asked after a long moment, his voice dropping lower, his hands going to her arms as he slowly helped her into a sitting position.
Lily nodded, but when she tried to push herself up, pain shot through her wrist. She hissed, and Gabriel was instantly at her side, one arm slipping around her back to steady her.
"Easy," he said, his touch gentle, but firm.
Lily met his gaze. "I think I'm okay," she said, but the words sounded weak even to her.
Gabriel didn't buy it. His eyes drifted to her wrist, swollen and bruised, then back to the cuts on her arms. His lips pressed into a tight line, frustration flickering across his face. "Yeah? 'Cause you don't look okay, angel."
The nickname was softer now, not teasing at all.
Lily wanted to brush it off, wanted to tell him she was fine, but his gaze made the words catch in her throat.
He didn't say anything more, just looked at her like he was trying to make sure she was really okay. Then he tore his gaze away, scanning their surroundings with a sharp, calculating look.
"We need to get out of here," he said, voice back to its usual steadiness, though his concern never fully left. When he looked at her again, his expression softened, and his hand lingered on her side like he was afraid to let go.
Gabriel's gaze flickered over the dense trees, the way the underbrush seemed to swallow the path ahead, and the distant hum of the waterfall that once seemed so close now felt like a distant memory. The gravity of their situation was setting in, but he didn't let it show. His thoughts raced, sharp and focused, but there was a slight crease of worry between his brows as he looked down at Lily.
He exhaled slowly, trying to steady himself before he spoke. "Okay," he began, his voice low but firm. "We can't go back up the hill."
Lily shifted slightly, the weight of her body making her wince as she tried to find a more comfortable position on the ground. Her wrist was already beginning to swell, and the cuts on her arms were starting to sting more as time passed.
Gabriel's gaze didn't meet hers for a moment as he scanned the surrounding woods. The last thing he needed was to put both of them in danger by trying to climb back up the slope. The bears were still likely nearby, and with Lily's wrist injured, she wouldn't be able to make the climb herself.
"Climbing back up the hill's not an option," Gabriel said, rubbing the back of his neck in frustration. "Too risky. And with your wrist, we can't afford to do anything that might make it worse."
He turned back to her, eyes narrowing as he assessed her condition. "I'll help you, okay? We're going around the hill."
Lily blinked at him, her brows furrowing as she processed what he said. "Around the hill? But... it'll be a longer way."
Gabriel nodded. "I know. But it's safer. We'll make our way through the trees and come around to the other side of the waterfall. There's a trail that loops back to camp."
Lily's mouth parted, but she quickly closed it, understanding the logic behind his plan. She didn't want to make the trek longer than necessary, but there wasn't much choice now. Gabriel was rightâthey had to avoid the bears, and they couldn't risk climbing back up the slippery rocks with her injury.
"Okay," she agreed, her voice quiet, tinged with frustration but understanding. "I can do that."
Gabriel nodded and crouched down in front of her, his muscles tense as he studied her wrist. "I'll carry you if I have to," he said, his tone soft but determined. "But we're getting out of here safely, understood?"
Lily swallowed, the small offer of comfort almost making her forget the pain for a moment. She nodded, feeling the weight of his seriousness settle over her like a blanket.
"Alright," Gabriel continued, standing up and holding out his hand to help her. "We'll move slow, take it easy. But stay close."
Lily accepted his hand, letting him help her to her feet, her legs shaky but solid enough to take a few tentative steps forward.
"I hate hiking," Lily said under her breath.
Oh no......hehehehe