Top Secret

by Sarina Bowen

I wait for Luke to come back with something witty. Maybe tease me, or, if he’s feeling edgy, mock me about my sheer joy over seeing some whales. He does none of those things. SinnerThree: I’ve missed you.

Although it kills me to type my next message, it needs to be said. LobsterShorts: I’m going to give it until midnight. If you show, then that means you’re ready to give our relationship a chance. If you don’t, then…I’ll have no choice but to move on. I can’t pine over you forever.

Annika falls to her knees in the sand, like Serena declaring a Wimbledon victory.

I’m just a guy, standing on a beach in nothing but his favorite pair of lobster shorts, waiting for the right man to love me.

I put my lips on his neck and inhale. “God, I missed you.” “Same,” he says in a low voice. “I’m sorry I’ve been such a dick.”

“This crazy pool. The private beach. Clay tennis courts.” He points toward the fenced-in courts. “Do you play?” “Tennis? What do you think, Hayworth?”

He gives me a sly smile. “I think I like it when you surprise me, that’s all. And tennis would suit you, ’cause you’re quick on your feet.” “Aw shucks,” I say in my usual cool manner. But the flattery hits me square in the chest. “Maybe you can teach me.”

“You surf?” I ask, because that sounds like fun. “A little. The Hamptons doesn’t always have great waves. The guys who are really into it spend a lot of time driving around looking for action.” “Like me on the apps in the olden days,” I joke.