Page 65 of The Shadows Between Us
“I hadn’t meant for us to keep our clothes on.” The words are out before I realize they might be too forward.
Kallias turns to me, a wicked grin on his face. “Why, Lady Alessandra, the more I learn about you, the more I like you.”
He stands, grabs the neckline at the back of his cotton shirt, and pulls it off in one movement. He looks down at me, calling my bluff, daring me to undress.
I’m only distracted for a moment by the expanse of muscles visible on his chest. They were hidden so well under that loose shirt. Under the layers of vests and waistcoats he’s usually to be found in.
But now he’s on display, and I decide it’s his best look.
I keep my eyes on his as I undo the buttons on my overskirt. Onceundone, I shrug off the garment, so I’m clad only in those pants and a tight, sleeveless blouse.
“Your guards?” I ask.
“They’re out of sight,” he says, his voice growing deeper with each word. Then, as though it takes him great effort, he turns around.
Turns around.
What the devils?
“What are you doing?” I ask.
“I’m waiting for my friend to undress and get in the water.”
Oh, is that how it’s going to be?
Is that the truth of things between us, or is Kallias trying to force that distinction on our relationship?
Making as much noise as I possibly can, I shrug out of my boots and pants, slip off my blouse and underthings, and then I approach the water, wondering if His Majesty will peek. If it’s just an act or if he thinks to catch me unawares.
He doesn’t even fidget.
The Shadow King is such a spoilsport.
The water is cold at first, but after a few seconds, I grow used to it, daring to go deeper and deeper, until all the important parts are covered.
“I’m in,” I tell him.
He turns around and makes a twirling motion with his finger. My turn to look away while he removes the rest of his clothing.
My toes dig into the smooth mud as I face the other direction. I keep my thoughts away from all the critters living in the lake and instead try to imagine what Kallias looks like naked. All that bronze skin and lean muscle.
I’m so lost in thought that I jump when I hear steps behind me.
“You can look now,” he says.
The water is so murky, I could stand right in front of Kallias and not see anything under the water.
More’s the pity.
He said he couldn’t touch. He said nothing about looking. So why should he wish to avert his gaze? And why the hell did he force me to turn around?
Suddenly put out, I hurry to think of something to say before our outing turns awkward.
“Do the shadows make it easier to float?” I ask him.
“Yes, actually.”
He’s only up to his waist, giving me a nice view of his torso. There’s not a mark on him. Not a scar or freckle in sight. How? How is he so perfect?
