Part 88 (2/2)

focused on her savior.

The boy in the navy trunks, she thought and managed a weak smile. Water

was dripping from his dark hair. His eyes were dark too, rich deep

gray, as clear as lake water.

”Thanks.”

”Sure.” He settled down beside her, feeling awkward in the role of white

knight. The guys would razz him for weeks. But he couldn't bring

himself to just leave her there. She was only a kid, after all. A

great-looking kid, he thought-then felt still more awkward. He gave her

shoulder a brotherly pat and thought she had the biggest, bluest eyes

he'd ever seen.

”I guess I lost my board.”

He s.h.i.+elded his eyes with the flat of his hand as he looked out to sea.

”No. Fred's bringing it in. It's a nice board.”

”I know. I've only had it for a couple of weeks.”

”Yeah, I've seen you around.” He glanced back down at her. She'd risen

up on her elbows and her wet curls tumbled down her back. Her voice was

pretty, he thought, sort of soothing and musical. ”You English or

something?”

”Irish. For the most part. Well be here only a few more days.” She

sighed as the boy named Fred dragged in her board. ”Thanks.” Not

knowing what else to say, she concentrated on rubbing the wet sand from

her knee.

The boy in the navy trunks gave Fred and the others who had gathered

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