Page 4 of Beauty and the Beach

“Can I save it then?”

“Save your wish until later?” Ana cocked her head at him. “Sure, but that means we’d have to see each other again.”

Makoa flashed a grin. “I’d like that.”

“I don’t have my cell phone on me,” Ana gestured to her suit.

His radio squawked. “Hey, Makoa, where are you.”

Wincing, Makoa picked up the hand held and spoke into it. “Just testing the Zodiac.”

“Yeah, well test it back to shore. We’ve got a bus coming in.”

“Roget dat.” He sighed. “I’ve got to go back to work. I don't suppose you can come with me?”

Ana shook her head. "I'm not supposed to let people see me. I could get in trouble."

He nodded. "That make sense. Don't worry. I won't tell anyone I saw you."

Relief made her sag against the boat's side. "Thank you. You're a life saver again."

"Where can I drop you off?"

"If you get me close to Black Rock, I can make it back from there."

"Shoots," he said. "Are you sure you can hide from the tourists?"

"I've had a lot of practice," she said, half laughing. If she could get to the shallow water, she could take her time peeling off the stupid tail and no one would be any wiser.

Pulling the zodiac in towards Black Rock, Makoa hopped them over waves. The salt spray tickled her face, and Ana threw her head back and laughed. She could get used to this. When they were close to Black Rock, he cut the motor and let the boat drift. They stared at each other for a few seconds. Ana felt a fluttering in her chest that had nothing to do with her near drowning experience. “I guess this is goodbye.”

“For now,” Makoa said quickly. “We can meet somewhere. Tomorrow maybe? I like D.T. Fleming Beach.”

Ana nodded. “I go there all the time. I love to swim with the sea turtles.”

“Me too. I’ll bring breakfast. Is nine too early?”

“No, that’s perfect. I can get some practicing in.” With her abs protesting, she leaned over the side of the boat and slid into the water. Ana gave him a wave with her tail and then swam around the rock out of his sight.