Lucinda cleared her throat deliberately, coughing twice to draw his attention back.
âNathan, are you having second thoughts? Donât you dare to bet on it?â
Nathan refrained from interpreting it as conceding; rather, he viewed it as exercising prudence.
He gulped audibly and inquired with apprehension, âWhat manner of punishment awaits? Could it possibly be harsh?â
Lucindaâs twinkling eyes acquired a sly, foxlike gleam as she deliberately heightened her tone, declaring, âDidnât I mention? I havenât settled on the precise punishment yet, but rest assured, it will be exceedingly severe, ensuring this voyage to Tysonia remains etched in your memory forever!â
Nathanâs jaw clenched.
In the presence of the unwed pair, he reluctantly acquiesced, âVery well, to prevail in this wager, I shall withhold nothing against you, my dear.
â
Lucinda sneered, âBring it on!â
Amidst the poolâs shimmering waters, Jennifer remained the sole contestant yet to articulate her stake, prompting the other three to fix their gaze upon her.
After careful consideration, Jennifer proposed, âLetâs initiate the game and discuss matters afterward.
Itâs merely a game; any consequences I impose wonât be overly severe.
â
Thus, the water volleyball match commenced.
Unbeknownst to others, Nathan harbored exceptional athletic prowess since childhood, having even orchestrated water volleyball tournaments during his military tenure.
His dominance in claiming first place in every game was seemingly predetermined.
His participation guaranteed victory without fail.
While Lucinda and Jennifer appeared diminutive, facing a considerable physical disadvantage against their male counterparts.
Agreeing to compete in seven sets in total, they commenced the match.
Nathan, in the initial three rounds, genuinely didnât relent, securing three points firmly.
The fourth round began.
Lucinda, recognizing Jenniferâs struggle and lack of prowess, kindled her competitive drive.
Despite the arduous physical demands, she mustered the strength to secure a point.
Observing Lucindaâs labored breaths and evident exhaustion, Nathan felt a pang of concern.
The match inherently did not favor Lucinda and Jennifer, putting them at an unfair disadvantage.
Deliberately, Nathan served the ball with one hand, subtly allowing them to gain ground.
Consecutively, Lucindaâs team claimed victory in three successive rounds.
Nevertheless, each win was hard-won.
As the match prolonged, the disparity in physical prowess became glaring, placing Lucinda and Jennifer at a distinct disadvantage.
With sheer determination, Lucinda earned these three points, while Nathan remained relaxed, showing no signs of fatigue or exertion.